A local IT computer that ran basic computing classes has also given away workstations to the 13 students who completed the course successfully.

A total of 13 students graduated from the JJ Electronics Samoa’s ICT and Computer tutorial class on Friday with each graduate taking home a computer package donated by the firm in order for them to further expand on what they’ve already learnt about operating a computer system.

In an interview with Samoa Observer, the JJ Cyber Café and Electronics owner Johnson Johnson said he and his team decided to start the computer and ICT classes because all of their customers brought in purchased computers and laptops because they don’t know how to assemble and put together a computer.

“We noticed that a lot of people bought computers but they don’t know how to connect it so we sat down, me and my team and we agreed to start the tutorial program,” Mr Jonson said.

“The fees for the classes started at $20 tala per hour but due to COVID-19 we decided to cut the price of the classes by 50 per cent or 1$10 tala.

“We advertised that once a student completes 45 hours of the classes and completes the program, they will then get a computer provided by us.”

Mr Johnson believes the gesture by his company is an investment in the future leaders of Samoa and empowering them with ICT knowledge. 

Initially people did not think those students who completed the training will be gifted with a company, however, he said that happened as confirmed on Friday during the small graduation ceremony at the JJ Electronics branch at the Amau Mall.

“It is our company’s mission to make sure that all families here in Samoa will have a computer inside their homes,” Mr Johnson added.

“ICT is the future of the world, especially in this day and age where we see and read information on a daily basis, we also communicate using technological mediums such as computers, phones and laptops.”

Among those who attended the graduation ceremony on Wednesday was the Minister of Communication and Information Technology,  Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo.

Giving a speech to mark the occasion, the Minister said studying ICT is very important in today’s world and that they should use wisely the opportunity given by the company. 

“You should not squander this opportunity but use it to enhance and upgrade your capabilities,” Toelupe said.

One of the lecturers of the program, Delffin Ah-Chong Key, said that she is very proud of her class for successfully completing the program and for completing all the assignments that she gave them.