Three schools will be transformed into modern learning facilities costing $30 million, provided by the People's Republic of China.

Students of Lepea Primary School, St. Theresa Primary School and Apia Primary School are looking forward to a healthier and better learning environment.

The official groundbreaking of the China-aided school buildings took place on Thursday at Apia Primary School.

Acting Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio acknowledged the Chinese government for their commitment and solidifying the two countries' strong diplomatic relationship.

He also highlighted the need for students to be taught in a better education environment.

"These three new school buildings will ensure a much better and safer school environment not only for the students but also for the teaching staff," he said.

"I believe that in a matter of months, we shall assemble here again here with your Excellency to celebrate the completion of these new school buildings, God willing."

Ambassador of China to Samoa, Fei Mingxing highlighted that the groundbreaking ceremony coincided with the celebration of Samoa's 62nd Independence Day and conveyed his well wishes.

"The project was initiated in 2019, however,  it was put on hold by Covid-19 otherwise the children should already be in the new campus by now," he said.

"Despite all these challenges, we are finally gathered here to kickstart the project, on the occasion of the 62nd Independence Day of the Independent State of Samoa.

"This project is especially for children. Children are blossoms of a nation, the holder promise of tomorrow, continue our legacies, building upon our achievements, leading our society to new heights."

The project will provide new buildings for 1500 students at Apia Primary, 470 at Lepea Primary School, and 450 at St Theresa Primary School, with a total construction area of 10,000 square meters.

The project is for the pathway of development of Samoa (P.D.S.). Since the inception of the China-Samoa relationship in 1975, China has implemented more than 20 infrastructure projects in Samoa. The diplomatic relation between the two nations will reach its 50th anniversary next year.

Minister of Police, Faualo Harry Schuster, Minister of Education and Culture, Seuula Ioane Tua'au, Minister of Sports, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell, and the Deputy Head of State, Le Mamea Ropati were amongst the guests at the ceremony.