Students attract huge crowds at Teuila

By Sarafina Sanerivi 08 September 2016, 12:00AM

Secondary students from 10 colleges pulled in a huge crowd to watch traditional performances at the Teuila main stage yesterday.

The annual Samoa Ne’i Galo cultural school competition was a very popular event with hundreds of school supporters, families and tourists enjoying the variety of dances  

The competition is divided into four main categories. They are the Ma’ulu’ulu (a traditional Samoan dance), Fa’ataupati (Slap dance), Solo (Samoan Monologues) and Lape highlighting the humor and skills of the fa’aluma (cheerleader). 

The 10 colleges competing in this year’s competition are: - Avele College, Faleata College, Leifiifi College, Sagaga College, Wesley College, Leulumoega Fou College, Aleipata College, Sanele College, Maluafou College and Anoamaa College. 

The Minister of M.E.S.C, Loau Keneti Sio who opened the competition, spoke about the importance of this festival in upholding Samoan culture and heritage. 

He also highlighted how vital it is for children to learn about culture and be able to perform in front of a crowd. 

Samoa Ne’i Galo emphasises the practice of Samoan traditions and customs, as an integral part of the education system. 

It is a tool by which the authenticity of Samoan culture is safeguarded and passed on to future generations. 

It provides a platform for young people to engage in traditional and modern cultural expressions; it enhances cultural awareness, respect and understanding of Samoan culture & practices among Samoa’s youth; and it aims to mainstream Samoan cultural heritage as part of national development initiatives. The two-day mini festival is organised by the Ministry of Education Sports & Culture (M.E.S.C) with the support of its stakeholders. 

Today is the last day of the competition and the winners will be announced. 

By Sarafina Sanerivi 08 September 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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