A total of six Samoan workers currently employed under the R.S.E. scheme by Cherri Global in New Zealand have completed a 10 weeks course at Vakamesina Small Business last month. 

The graduation ceremony for the course was held last month by Vakamesina in Central Otago. 

The six workers are Falaniko Ese (team leader), Solofa Junior Toala, Savelio Lupe Sale, Lio Galue Sagato, Ielomatiaina Iese Maulili, and Tafatolumalua Alesana. 

Josephine Ennion, the coordinator for the Vakamesina course, commended the team for their exceptional dedication and diligent efforts in working proficiently with a second language. 

She added that these commendable efforts were exerted after a full day of work in the orchard, showcasing the team's remarkable commitment and resilience.

The leader of the Samoan boys' group expressed appreciation for the chance to acquire additional skills that could prove beneficial upon their return to Samoa. 

He acknowledged that the journey was challenging, particularly because they were fatigued from their work commitments and had to balance their studies simultaneously.

Despite the difficulties, the leader said the value of the opportunity to enhance their skill set, underscored the potential positive impact it could have when they go back to Samoa.

"It’s a great feeling to graduate from this course as sometimes we felt tired after a whole day in the orchard, you want to come and rest but then you have homework and a class to attend," Falaniko said. 

"It feels like we were in a classroom and learning. English is our second language and it was a barrier to learning for some of our team members, but we helped each other. We all managed to complete and graduated”. 

Now armed with the certificate, Falaniko said he will use it to start his business in Samoa when his contract is finished. 

He added that he can use the certificate and put his skills to apply for jobs in the same area of customer service and office assistance.

The Course was funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s New Zealand Aid Programme, the Vakameasina RSE Worker Training Programme continues to offer free education and development opportunities for all RSE workers across New Zealand. 

Vakameasina is an integral component of the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme, and supports both RSE workers and employers with foundational courses for living and working in New Zealand. 

Laufiso Tomasi Peni, the Liaison Officer of Samoa in New Zealand's South Island said the significance of backing the training initiatives.

He highlighted the diverse range of courses available, including cooking, computing, building, driving, English language, and leadership training. 

The courses are fully funded, requiring only a 10-week commitment with a total of 20 hours, equating to 1 hour on any 2 days of the week designated for the course.

From January 2018 to June 2023, out of the 6,382 RSE workers who completed the Vakameasina Training, approximately 300 were Samoan workers.