The pouring rain in the early hours of Monday did not dampen the spirits of the Samoa College Old Pupils Association (S.C.O.P.A.) who marched cheering in marking the Samoa College's 70th anniversary.

Hundreds who joined the parade marched from the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (S.F.E.S.A.), around the town clock and towards the Government Building which was led by the police band.

After the flag raising and formalities, one of the oldest members of the S.C.O.P.A and a member of the founding class in 1953, Naitua Taefu who had been teaching most of her career was given the honour to cut the cake on behalf of the gathering.

"Firstly, we give praise to God for guiding us through to this morning, and for Samoa College which has reached 70 years since its' inception," she said.

"I can recall that the first prefect when the school was established, he was Tunumafono Apelu Aiavao and Don Rasmussen and Apelu's first words in front of the gathering was, we stand for the future and now look at where we are, I am very proud of classes of each year."

One of the S.C.O.P.A's achievements this year was  proposing for an extra foundation class or a Year 9 class making it five classes due to the demand and the increasing number of students who made the cut in this year's entrance exams.

A few of the old pupils of the school who hold high positions in the government and in several sectors in the country were seated on stage comprising of the Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Va'aleto'a Sualauvi II, Deputy H.O.S, Le Mamea Ropati, Piula Theological College principal, Reverend Mosese Mailo who was the master of prayer, leader of the opposition, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, and several others. 

The Acting Prime Minister, Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio who sat on stage with the country's leaders and S.C.O.P.A members reminded the association of their vital role in providing support where it is needed for the school so the school continues to strive for excellence for the future of Samoa.

"Our forefathers knew that we could no longer rely solely on primary education but Samoa needed educated men and women who could lead us to a secured future of self governance," he added.

"70 years later, there is no doubt this vision has been realised and fulfilled. Graduates of Samoa College now hold esteemed leadership positions in government, the private and business sector, members of the clergy, renowned academics and scientists, researchers, linguists and economists, professional sportswomen and sportsmen, and chiefs orators of villages. 

"Former students of Samoa College have and continued to serve in numerous capacities ranging from international arenas as judges, academics and heads of regional organisations just to name a few.

"Today as we reflect on the many contributions made by the old pupils of Samoa College to the development of the wellbeing of Samoa and beyond, we thank God for his divine guidance that subsequently led to the opening of Samoa College.

"Our service for Samoa is pivotal and this requires quality public service. The role of education to our development and social wellbeing is crucial and remains a significant component of the government's pathway for the development of Samoa and its budget every year."

In light of the celebration, the S.C.O.P.A members in New Zealand officially handed over a cheque of $50,000 for the school and S.C.O.P.A for the commemoration.

Meanwhile, amongst the crowd who marched in the parade were Chief Executive Officers, theological college students, and several others who currently hold leadership roles in several sectors including the government.

Samoa College's forever motto is "Wisdom to serve and to strive for excellence in education".