How to work towards a better Samoa

By Aruna Lolani 24 September 2017, 12:00AM

If we want a better Samoa, it’s up to us to make it happen.

And A’ana Pio Tuimaseve believes everything counts and everyone has a role to play.

“If you’re the Prime Minister, you have a job to do, if you’re a doctor, you also have a role and if you’re a farmer, then be the best,” he said.

The 52 year-old-comes from Samalaeulu Savaii and Lotoso’a Saleimoa.

“I think the most powerful weapon right now is our culture, it reminds us who we truly are and where we come from,” A’ana told the Village Voice.

However there are huge differences between the rural villages and the town area. 

“You can see it and feel it that people from rural areas value and respect the culture we grew up with.” 

“I think that’s why everything goes well in the villages all the time; it is with our culture that sets standards and rules so people can refrain from misbehaving.” 

“This is our way to honor the life our ancestors who have fought for our freedom,” he said. 

A’ana also spoke about the uniqueness when it comes to the Samoa culture.  

“When it comes to Upolu and Savaii; I would have to say everyone in Savaii understands the culture more.”  

“Up until now; Savaii is still making our culture their top priority because they know our culture is our identity.”

“That’s why we do things according to our customs and traditions and you always feel safe within those lands,” he said. 

“In Upolu; besides a few rural villages; you don’t really see many people share the same interest and passion anymore.”

“In my opinion; when we don’t know our culture that’s where things go wrong.”

“Think about our youth of today.” 

“We believe that they are the future of our families but, what future when most of them don’t even work,” he said.  

A’ana a Chief in his village said the youth is their top priority because of the things they have witness nowadays.

“For example; the village has the right to punish children when they do not attend school because the village council has set education to be a compulsory thing to do.” 

“It’s fair and the right thing to do because kids not going to school can lead to them roaming around which then lead to bad habits like drinking alcohol and smoking.” 

“In fact, I am still surprise with some of the crimes I hear about our youth today.”

“The best thing to do is teach our children about our culture while they are still young. As parents we must advise them on what to do because we are their first teachers after all.”

“The equation is simple; no education equals to a bad future,” said the concerned Chief. 

By Aruna Lolani 24 September 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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