Apia, July 9, 2024 – Samoa warmly welcomed fourteen new Peace Corps Volunteers this week, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Samoa and the United States. This arrival signifies the resurgence of the Peace Corps program in Samoa, which has been instrumental in fostering educational development and cross-cultural exchange since 1967.
The new group of volunteers was honoured at a traditional Ava Ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Culture (MESC). The ceremony was attended by U.S. Ambassador Tom Udall, Peace Corps Country Director Gini Wilderson, and MESC CEO Aeau Christopher Hazelman, highlighting the importance of this bilateral partnership. “The Peace Corps embodies the spirit of cooperation and friendship. We are proud to support Samoa’s educational goals through this enduring partnership,” stated Ambassador Udall.
Since its inception, more than 2,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in Samoa, contributing to various developmental projects. The current group, aged between their early 20s and late 40s, will focus on enhancing English literacy in primary schools, working as English Resource Teachers and supporting local educators.
Country Director Gini Wilderson expressed her enthusiasm for the new volunteers. “This group’s arrival marks a return to our full program capacity post-pandemic. They are ready to address literacy challenges in primary schools, continuing our mission of empowering Samoa’s future leaders through education.”
The volunteers will participate in an 11-week Pre-Service Training Program, which includes intensive training in the Samoan language, culture, and technical skills. This preparation will enable them to integrate seamlessly into their host communities, ensuring effective service delivery.
The Peace Corps program emphasises not just educational development but also cultural exchange. One volunteer shared, “Literacy opens doors to countless opportunities. My goal is to inspire students to pursue their dreams through education.” Another volunteer highlighted the significance of community integration, saying, “Building strong, respectful relationships within my host community is essential to my mission here.”
The arrival of this 94th group of Peace Corps Volunteers continues a legacy of service and cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds between Samoa and the United States and contributing to sustainable development and mutual understanding.
Source: U.S. Embassy Apia, Samoa
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