The Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education (OCPDCE)
has successfully conducted a comprehensive Training Needs Analysis Consultation,
gathering valuable insights from youth across Upolu and Savai’i. This initiative marks the first
phase of the NUS Youth Project, a collaborative effort with the Commonwealth of Learning
(COL) and the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD).
The consultations were held on Tuesday 16th July 2024 at To’oa Salamasina Hall in Sogi for
Upolu and from 17th-18th July, 2024 at the MWCSD office in Salelologa for Savai’i. The event
brought together three youth representatives and one District Office representative from
each district, demonstrating a commitment to engaging with the next generation and
harnessing their ideas and perspectives.
The survey provided a unique opportunity to identify the training needs of diverse youth
groups with representatives from the district offices also invited to ensure that the
discussions aligned with the priorities outlined in the district development plan.
The project aims to bridge the gap between education and community development by
creating a roadmap for NUS to design and deliver tailor-made training programs that meet
the real needs of the community. “We want to ensure that our training programs are
relevant and impactful to cater specifically towards the needs of Samoa’s youth, ultimately
contributing to long-term community development,” said Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa,
Vice-Chancellor and President of the National University of Samoa.
The deliberations focused on several critical areas, including identifying skills and
knowledge that would enhance employability and competitiveness in the job market,
exploring modes of learning that cater to diverse learning styles and needs, and discussing
challenges in accessing lifelong learning opportunities. Participants also brainstormed ways

to improve opportunities for youth participating in lifelong learning, including increasing
awareness about available resources, providing mentorship and support networks, and
creating flexible learning pathways.
The information collected from this survey will inform the development of training courses
that cater specifically to the needs of Samoa’s youth. In the next phase, an open invitation
will be extended to all Samoan youth to participate in a transformative lifelong learning
experience. This will provide an exciting opportunity for young people from Upolu and
Savai’i to register and apply for a range of training programs and courses tailored to their
interests and goals. A selection process will follow, and successful applicants will be notified
about the start of their journey, marking the beginning of a life-changing experience.