In a significant development for global cooperation and local progress, UNESCO and the Government of Samoa have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in the core areas of education, culture and science. The meeting between UNESCO’s Director for the Pacific States and Samoa’s Prime Minister highlighted both parties’ shared vision for sustainable development across the Pacific region and affirmed long-standing ties founded on mutual respect and partnership.
The discussions took place against a backdrop of nearly four and a half decades of partnership, with Samoa’s membership of UNESCO approaching its 45th anniversary in 2026. The leaders explored new opportunities to enhance capacity development, strengthen cultural preservation, promote scientific inquiry, and expand quality education for all Samoan citizens and communities across the Pacific.
This renewed cooperation signals a fresh chapter in education and cultural engagement, positioning Samoa as both a key partner for UNESCO and a vibrant voice in advancing Pacific regional goals.
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A Conversation of Shared Priorities
During the high-level meeting in Apia, the UNESCO Regional Director articulated genuine appreciation for Samoa’s steadfast support, especially for hosting the UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States in Apia. Established in 1984, the office serves as a hub for collaboration across 17 island nations, fostering regional dialogue on development priorities in education, culture, science and youth leadership.
Prime Minister Laʻaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt welcomed the strengthened partnership, underscoring Samoa’s readiness to work with UNESCO on initiatives that uplift communities and promote inclusive development. Both parties reaffirmed a shared focus on justice, social inclusion, and the empowerment of young people to confront modern global challenges.
Central to the discussions was a renewed emphasis on quality education that reaches every learner, the safeguarding of Samoa’s rich cultural heritage, and science that informs development policy and innovation. These priorities are aligned with global sustainable development goals and reflect Samoa’s strategic objectives for national progress and regional leadership.
Strengthening Education and Cultural Heritage
Quality education remains a cornerstone of UNESCO’s work with Samoa. The UNESCO Pacific Office in Apia has long supported efforts that equip teachers, expand digital learning platforms and improve access to lifelong learning opportunities. Integration of information and communication technologies in Samoan schools has been a priority, particularly in efforts to strengthen resilient education systems that can respond to disruptions like pandemics and natural disasters.
Beyond formal schooling, UNESCO’s engagement includes community input in educational planning, ensuring that policy reflects the voices of parents, civil society and local stakeholders. This approach supports Samoa’s drive toward inclusive and equitable education for all, with particular focus on children and marginalised groups.
Cultural heritage has also featured strongly in UNESCO and Samoa’s joint efforts. Programmes such as Heritage Talanoa have celebrated and safeguarded intangible cultural practices like traditional weaving and craft making while fostering broader conversations about cultural rights and identity among youth and artisans.
UNESCO’s role in national and regional culture initiatives, including exhibitions and conferences such as the Pacific History Association event, strengthens Samoa’s position as a hub for scholarly dialogue and cultural exchange across Oceania.
Science, Innovation and Regional Development
Scientific collaboration forms a key aspect of the renewed cooperation. UNESCO supports projects that enhance Samoa’s scientific capacity, particularly in areas linked to sustainable development and resilient policy frameworks. Engagement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and research has been expanded through broader regional initiatives that connect Samoa with other nations and development partners.
Science also plays a role in addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges. Programmes focusing on water security and science-based policy are examples of UNESCO’s efforts to share expertise that strengthens Samoa’s ability to manage natural resources and respond to climate change.
Young scientists and innovators are among the key beneficiaries of such collaborations. UNESCO-supported bootcamps and training programmes across the Pacific have equipped emerging thinkers and entrepreneurs with practical skills and networks to contribute to sustainable development and technological innovation in their home countries.
Looking Ahead
The renewed commitment between UNESCO and Samoa goes beyond celebratory statements to reflect concrete priorities for collaborative action. With Samoa marking 45 years as a UNESCO Member State in 2026, this moment represents both a commemorative milestone and a springboard for future growth in education, culture and science.
As Samoa and UNESCO move forward together, the focus will remain on people-centred programmes that advance access to quality education, preserve cultural richness, and apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges. These efforts are expected to benefit not only Samoa but the wider Pacific region as UNESCO’s partnership continues to evolve in the decades ahead.
In telling this story of cooperation, we see how international collaboration can nurture national development aspirations and contribute to resilient, inclusive societies across continents and cultures.
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