Over 200 students from Savaii are currently attending the National University of Samoa (NUS) and some are facing challenges with their housing in Upolu while pursuing their studies.

Some will be accommodated by relatives while some do not have family members on Upolu. Students hope that the NUS will look into making a hostel for students who come across the Apolima Strait and the rural areas of Upolu. 

Anarosa Fetui, 17, from Savaii, expressed her eagerness to learn and engage on campus. However, she is faced with a significant challenge, she has no family in Upolu. As a result, her parents will need to find alternative arrangements for her accommodation to enable her to attend school.

“I have noticed many new developments here that differentiate the schools in Savaii from those in Upolu. Life in Savaii is quite distinct from that in Upolu,” she said.

"I am still looking for a place to stay and my parents are trying their best. I aim to study this year and I will ensure that a lack of accommodation does not become a barrier for me."

Selina Makesi expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to study at Upolu for the first time and to be on campus.

“I am from Savaii and have no family in Upolu. My main challenge this year will be finding a place to live while attending school. I hope that the NUS has hostels or accommodation for students who are coming from Savaii.

"That way, our parents can rest easy."

Blessing Salima Penisula mentioned that she has family in Upolu, but moving here and living here is quite different, as they are unfamiliar with the routine and tasks involved.

“We have no choice but to stay with them, as it's our last hope and a place to stay, even though I have never met them in my life or had the chance to get to know them," she said.

"Additionally, the lifestyle of the inhabitants of Upolu is vastly different from that of Savaii."

Every student is excited to attend university to further their education and meet other students. Those who have never visited Upolu before will notice a different environment and fresh perspectives.

Theodora Matalavea, a resident of Savaii, shared that she is new to the area and beginning her journey at NUS school is a significant experience for her. She is dedicated to learning and studying. Leaving her parents and home behind to pursue her education is something she has never encountered before, which highlights her determination to succeed.

However, she feels pressured to handle various responsibilities while neglecting her studies and schoolwork. This pressure arises because other students have moved to Upolu to live with relatives they had never met before.

"Leaving my parents and home behind to come here to study is something I have never experienced before, but it demonstrates how much I want to succeed," said Theodora.

“I also want to encourage my Savaii siblings to be themselves. They should never change who they are to achieve success and should always live their lives authentically."

The NUS does not offer on campus stay for students. The hostels across the road from the NUS entrance are for international students who come to study with the APTC.