When growing up, Simalua Tuaniu wanted to follow her father's footsteps and become a teacher. She has now been teaching for a little more than 50 years.

She is the head teacher at Vaigaga Primary School and hails from Vaimoso and Sa'anapu Safata. Last week she was among those civils servants recognised for their long service.

She has seven children and 49 grandchildren. Two of her grandchildren live with her while all others are abroad.

"Many of the kids I taught are now successful. Some of them remember me, but I don't, and they tell me they were my students, and I am amazed at their success" she stated.

Tuaniu graduated from the Teaching School and attended the Faculty of Education at the University of the South Pacific. 

Around 1974, she began working as a teacher at Sa’anapu Primary School. Six years later she married her husband.

After spending her first year in Sa'anapu, she spent roughly five years at her mother's village in Vaie'e. After that, she moved to Savai'i to live with her husband's family and teach at Palauli Primary School for eight years.

"I saw that the teachers there in Savaii were a lot older than I was. They had been there teaching for a long time. I then decided to come back to Upolu.

"After two years of returning to Vaie'e Primary School, I applied for a position as a principal at Sa'anapu and was given the opportunity. In 1990 and 1991, I worked as the assistant head teacher in Sa'anapu. 

"Later, in 2000, I was chosen to lead Levi Primary School after serving as Salamumu's principal. My contract ended in 2019, and I was being lazy about my head teaching duties because they were too demanding for me at my age. 

“I arrived at Vaigaga Primary School and stayed as an assistant head teacher. It has been five years since I was promoted to head teacher here at Vaigaga Primary School.

"It has been challenging for me, but I always tried to make things right because that was my job. I had to deal with issues with instructors all the time, as well as parents because not all of them understood. 

“Since I am a public servant and teach students to serve the nation and its citizens, I always respect the government, regardless of who was in power. All governments are amazing but it's the individuals who make things twisted." 

According to Tuaniu, every work has its challenges. She calls for teamwork and support in getting over the hurdles.

“To know how to handle your family, your issues, and all of the challenges you encounter, I advise students to pursue careers as teachers. Although teaching is challenging, I enjoy what I do and teaching the students," she said.

"Since teaching involves being a police officer, a preacher, and a caregiver for each student, it is advised that all students who want to become teachers be knowledgeable and come to work.

"When you love, are patient, and are honest with your work, you will gain insight into the thoughts of parents, students, and others. When you retire, you will have learned a great deal from others."