The national examinations for primary schools across Samoa are scheduled to start earlier than usual. 

The alterations are in preparation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which is set to take place in Samoa later this month.

In a move to accommodate the CHOGM, the Samoa Primary Education Literacy Levels (S.P.E.L.L.) assessments for Year 4 and Year 6, as well as the Samoa National Assessments of Primary Education (S.N.A.P.E.) for Year 8, will be conducted earlier than usual. 

The revised examination dates are scheduled from Monday 7 October to Friday 11 October.

A'eau Chris Hazelman, Chief Executive Officer of M.E.C., confirmed that school principals and teachers were notified of these changes well in advance. 

According to A'eau, the adjustments were communicated before the start of the academic year, allowing educators ample time to prepare. The Ministry first informed the public about these new examination dates in June, highlighting the necessity of the schedule shift to avoid conflicts with the CHOGM.

Following the conclusion of the primary level exams, students will enjoy a three-week break starting on 14 October. This break comes after the end of the third term of the academic year, providing students and teachers with a respite before the start of the next term.

In response to recent inquiries, A'eau assured that all examination papers are prepared and ready for the upcoming assessments. Meanwhile, the National Secondary Examinations will proceed as scheduled from 18 November to 28 November.

The CHOGM, which will take place from 21 October to 26 October has also prompted a temporary pause in primary and secondary school activities. 

During this period, approximately 300 teachers and staff from M.E.C. will play a crucial role in supporting the event. These individuals will serve as auxiliary officers with the Ministry of Police, while other personnel will work as liaison officers and security staff at the Cultural Centre. 

Additionally, government tech officers will manage cybersecurity tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the conference.

The adjustment in the examination timetable underscores the importance of the CHOGM and the significant role Samoa is playing in hosting this prestigious event.