A generous contribution of $100,000 has been made for a new 'fale Samoa hall' at Avele College and other improvements within the college, thanks to the Avele College Old Pupil Association (A.C.O.P.A.) based in Auckland, New Zealand.

Avele College is celebrating its 100th anniversary with events and significant donations aimed at enhancing the school’s facilities.

On Monday morning, representatives from A.C.O.P.A. Auckland met with the executive committee of A.C.O.P.A. in Samoa, who have been tirelessly organising the centenary festivities. 

Hundreds of former students have returned to their alma mater for the celebrations, which will span an entire week. The highlight of the festivities includes the dedication of the new 'fale Samoa' hall, a significant addition to the college’s infrastructure.

At the donation presentation, the Minister for Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Va'ai, who is also an executive member of A.C.O.P.A. and an alumnus of Avele College, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the members of A.C.O.P.A. Auckland. 

He lauded their commitment and generosity, noting the importance of remembering and giving back to the institution that laid the foundation for their careers. 

"It is immensely satisfying to see that our former students still hold Avele in high regard and continue to contribute to its development," Olo Fiti Va'ai remarked.

The spokesperson for A.C.O.P.A. Auckland acknowledged the challenges of coordinating such a large group of alumni, many of whom are now scattered across various regions of New Zealand. 

However, he credited social media for making communication and organisation more manageable, facilitating successful fundraising efforts. 

"Getting everyone together was not easy, but platforms like social media played a crucial role in our efforts to raise the funds donated today," he stated.

The 100th anniversary celebrations are in full swing, with the official welcoming ceremony scheduled for Tuesday evening, followed by a parade on Wednesday. 

The festivities were graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Sir Tom Marsters, the King's Representative to the Cook Islands, and his wife Lady Tuaine. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa is set to deliver the keynote address at the official opening ceremony, underscoring the significance of this milestone in the college’s history.