Rotary Club of Pago Pago and Bluesky Donate Computers on Savai’i

March 12, 2025 - Last week, the Rotary Club of Pago Pago sent a delegation to Savai'i (a remote island of the Independent State of Samoa, a neighboring country of American Samoa) on a mission to deliver computers to a school in need. Rotarians Chris Brown, Cherith Soliai, Agnes Polu, Justin Tuiasosopo, and Faafua Cummings represented the club. Club Secretary Faafua submits this report:

Rotary Club of Pago Pago presents computers for the new Gatavai Primary School

A group of five Rotarians journeyed by plane, boat and van to a remote village on Savai'i, carrying a gift that will influence the future of Gataivai Primary School: 7 desktop computers and 13 laptops for the school's new computer lab. This donation, a collaborative effort by the Rotary Club of Pago Pago's International Services Committee and Bluesky, was warmly received by the village matais and teachers, who expressed profound gratitude and welcomed the team wholeheartedly.

The computer equipment was formally handed off to the school at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by school and church officials along with the vaillge matai (chiefs).

In his remarks, School Principal Mr. Norman Fa’afetai said, "This is not just about providing hardware, it’s about investing in our future, our people, and the development of our community. We are deeply grateful for your belief in our work and your willingness to support us. These computers will be put to excellent use, creating lasting impact for both our staff and, most importantly, our students. Thank you for your generosity and for making this dream a reality. We are truly honored to have you as our partner in this endeavor."

Principal Norman Fa'afetai

This initiative, budgeted at approximately $8,000 USD (around $20,000 WST), was realized thanks to the fundraising efforts and generous donations from Rotary members and the community. The result exemplifies the Rotary motto, "Service Above Self," highlighting the club's dedication to empowering youth through education.

At the heart of this effort to teach computer literacy is Peace Corps volunteer Annette Polu, whose passion and dedication helped lay the foundation for this project. She initially reached out to the club seeking assistance in August 2024. Her persistance and initiative led her to revive the school library and begin teaching basic computer skills to her primary school students in anticipation of the computer donation. Her good communication and vision made the Rotary Club's decision to take on this project an easy one. Now, Gataivai’s Year 7 and 8 students will have access to digital learning, an invaluable skill as the world moves further into the digital age. 

Peace Corps volunteer Annette Polu poses with Rotary Club members. (l-r: Chris, Cherith, Faafua, Annette, Agnes, Justin)

This project was made possible thanks to the invaluable support of the Rotary Club of Apia and SMI Hardware who assisted in the safe transport of the computers from American Samoa to Savai’i. Their assistance in securing and delivering the equipment from Apia was crucial in bringing this vision to life. 

As the saying goes, "Love your neighbor as yourself.” This donation is more than just a gift, it is an investment in the future of young people, providing them with the tools they need to succeed. 

Along with the computers, the delegation brought two cases of hardbound color dictionaries which were donated to Sataua Primary and Asau High School.

The journey ended with the Rotarians taking in the beauty of Savai’i, enjoying the island’s delicious food and hospitality.

Hard work deserves icecream!

This is only the beginning. With continued support and partnerships, we hope this donation will inspire future projects and help shape the future of students for years to come.

If you, your family, or business are interested in assisting the Rotary Club of Pago Pago's ongoing efforts to further education in the Samoan archipelago, please reach out. We always enjoy making new friends!