Workshops to unlock youth's connection to their roots

Sāmoan youth are being given the opportunity to learn their language in a fun and engaging environment, aiming to bridge the gap between youth and Sāmoan-speaking elders.

A free, interactive language workshop, led by Falelalaga Cultural and Education Centre will run for 10 weeks, starting on 10 September, targeting youth from the ages of five to 18.

Saoatulagioletagaloa Penina Tu’unai Ifopo, is the managing director of the centre which runs the workshops, and she said what’s special about them is that it will mimic the way language is taught back in the islands, drawing from the unique societal and intergenerational dynamics of Sāmoa and with guidance from mātua.

She told Pacific Mornings they are not just teaching Gagana Sāmoa just for the sake of teaching it but to implement the strands of listening, pronunciation, speaking, and ultimately connection to the practical side of things.

“You’re not only listening to the words, to the upu, but you’re pronouncing it as well as really engaging and participating in the action,” she said.

“You don’t find that anywhere else.”

Ifopo said that while there are many programs reviving Gagana Sāmoa for adults, there is a growing gap in terms of what is available for youth.

“We are connecting our young people with their roots and what better way to do it than actually connecting with those that hold the wisdom.”

Going forward, Ifopo emphasised the importance of their partnership with the Center of Pacific Languages as a way to ensure the programme is sustainable.

“It's a village approach and it takes a village for all of us to maintain and revive our Gagana Sāmoa,” she said.