School Principals have expressed delight about the participation of their students in the 2019 Independence Day celebrations to mark the 57th Flag Day.

 Siufaga Primary School, Vaiala Beach School, Marist Primary School and St. Mary’s Primary were some of the schools that took part in Saturday’s programme. 

The different uniforms provided a rainbow of colours at Mulinu'u.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, 51-year-old Siufaga Primary School Principal, Elisa Silia Paipai, said it was their first time to participate in the national celebrations and they welcomed the opportunity.

“It is a awesome time for the student and the staff at Siufaga Primary school, because this is the first time celebrating the independent days of Samoa, we prepare for two after we were inform from the government because the head of State is from our village Falelatai and that’s why we come from this far to support him, “she add.

St Mary’ Primary School principal, 62-year-old Masiela Tenisio, said St Mary is one of Samoa’s oldest schools and they always look forward to participating in the independence celebrations. 

“Actually we have being taking part in this event for so many years, because our school St Mary Primary School is one of the oldest schools in Samoa, and once Samoa become independent St Mary Primary School has been taking part of this event”, she said.

Another school head, 54-year-old Siaosi Ioane who is the headmaster of Marist Brothers Primary School, said this year’s event is different as they had an early start and finished quickly.  

“I was so happy at the student reaction to the event, today and also the staff of Teacher how they enjoy it — this year’s event for independence days is different from other years,” he said.

Sixty six-year-old Lorraine Williams, the principal of Vaiala Beach School, echoed similar sentiments on the length of Saturday’s programme. 

“It's fantastic the student have sense of pride being Samoa and living in Samoa, when they march they feel great about their self,” she added.