Fero Samoa, a key leader in the country’s manufacturing industry, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at nurturing local talent and addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. 

The company’s vocational and trade scholarship program is designed to support students pursuing education in these crucial disciplines, helping to ease the financial burden often faced by families in accessing higher education.

The scholarships, offering up to $1500 in financial assistance for course fees, are geared towards vocational training and tertiary education in STEM-related subjects. 

In a bid to provide students with real-world experience, successful recipients will also have the chance to join Fero Samoa for apprenticeships during term breaks, gaining invaluable hands-on training in their chosen career paths. 

This practical exposure is an essential part of bridging the gap between academic learning and industry needs.

Fero Samoa is placing a special emphasis on encouraging female participation in the STEM sector, recognising the underutilised potential of Samoan women in these fields. 

To promote gender inclusivity, the company has committed to allocating at least 40% of the scholarships exclusively for female applicants, creating an avenue for women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries.

The scholarship program builds upon Fero Samoa’s strong, seven-year partnership with the Government of Samoa, a collaboration that has enabled the company to supply world-class wiring loom solutions to markets in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. 

With this new scholarship initiative, Fero Samoa seeks to give back to the community that has supported its growth, ensuring that future generations of Samoan professionals are equipped with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in an increasingly globalised economy.

As Fero Samoa continues to expand its manufacturing operations to meet growing demand, the need for highly skilled graduates has never been more pressing. 

The scholarship program is a crucial step in addressing the current skills gap, fostering professional development, and creating meaningful employment opportunities within the local workforce. 

By investing in education and training, Fero Samoa is helping to cultivate a thriving, sustainable workforce that will drive the company’s success and contribute to Samoa’s economic growth.

Applications for the scholarships are now open and can be submitted in person at Fero Samoa’s main office in Vaitele, located opposite the Vaitele SNPF, or via email at [email protected]. 

The deadline for submissions is 14 February 2025 and successful applicants will be notified by the end of the month.

Through this scholarship program, Fero Samoa is reaffirming its dedication to the future of Samoa—empowering young people with the tools they need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of STEM, while also nurturing the community and creating lasting impact for generations to come.