Governor vetoes Samoan language bill
Governor Togiola Tulafono has vetoed a Fono bill that would have required instruction in local schools to be conducted in both Samoan and English.
According to the Governor, imposing such a requirement would not be conducive to learning.
Togiola said through an October 30 letter to the Fono leadership that while he’s a strong proponent of the preservation and teaching of the Samoan language, he’s of the opinion that the bill will be an obstacle to learning rather than an aid.
He said approving the bill would mean that teachers in local schools would have to put in twice as much time to teach a class because they would have to translate in Samoan everything that was already taught in English.
The Governor expressed concern that since many public school teachers are not of Samoan descent, it would be impossible for them to comply with the requirements of this bill. In addition, existing textbooks and material used in schools have to be translated to Samoan in order to comply with the proposed law.
Currently, DOE public school teachers are using the Samoan language in classrooms, especially the lower levels, to ensure that students fully understand all subject matter.
Togiola told Fono leaders that the Samoan language is designated a place in public schools, and that is, to assist in situations where English becomes inadequate.
“I believe such an arrangement is working well in preparing our students for higher education and employment,” the Governor wrote, adding that he appreciates the spirit behind the bill, which is to use our native tongue to assist in learning and perhaps even increase the exposure of our younger generations to the Samoan language.
Togiola said he also has to look at the impracticability of such a mandate and the added burden that it will pose on educators.
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