SCOPA Launches STEM Project 2026 to Rebuild Samoa College Science Laboratories
- Staff Writer
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
APIA, SAMOA — The Samoa College Old Pupils Association New Zealand (SCOPA NZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in the future of education with the launch of the SCOPA STEM Project 2026, a major alumni-led initiative to rebuild three science laboratories at Samoa College.
The project, officially launched by SCOPA NZ before the end of 2025, was developed following discussions with Samoa College Principal Karene Fa'asisila, who approached the Association to express the urgent need to modernise the school's ageing science laboratories.
Recognising the importance of providing students with quality STEM learning environments, SCOPA NZ President Leaupepe Talai Lene and his Executive Committee began engaging with former students, development partners and potential funders to turn the vision into reality.
Today, the project has reached a significant milestone, with the demolition of the existing laboratories now complete and renovation works expected to begin shortly.
President Leaupepe Talai Lene said the redevelopment is about leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of Samoa College students.
"When the Principal approached us with the school's vision, our Executive immediately recognised the importance of this project. We launched the SCOPA STEM Project before the end of last year and have since been working with alumni and funding partners to make this vision a reality. This is more than rebuilding classrooms—it's about investing in the future of Samoa College and giving our students modern facilities that inspire learning and innovation."
The redevelopment will deliver three modern science laboratories designed to support practical learning in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and other STEM disciplines. The new facilities will provide students with access to contemporary learning environments that encourage scientific inquiry, critical thinking and innovation while preparing them for careers in science, engineering, medicine and technology.
Leaupepe also said alumni around the world are now being encouraged to support the project through a global fundraising campaign.
"SCOPA NZ has launched an online registration campaign inviting every former Samoa College student to pledge a minimum contribution of NZ$100 towards rebuilding the science laboratories. Every donation, no matter the size, will help create modern facilities for the next generation of students. It is our opportunity as alumni to give something back to the school that helped shape our lives."
Leaupepe said the Association has already received strong support from former students across New Zealand, Australia and other parts of the world, with more registrations continuing to come in.
One of the unique aspects of the redevelopment is that the construction of the new science laboratories is being undertaken by former Samoa College students, demonstrating the strong commitment of alumni to give back through both their professional expertise and financial support.
Meanwhile, the newly elected President of SCOPA Samoa, the Association's motherland body, Fofogamua Mulitalo Sailo Tulifau, welcomed the collaboration between the two organisations and outlined SCOPA Samoa's role in delivering the project.
"SCOPA Samoa is committed to working alongside SCOPA NZ to project manage the redevelopment through to completion, ensuring future Samoa College students benefit from modern science laboratories."
Under the partnership, SCOPA NZ is leading fundraising, donor engagement and alumni mobilisation internationally, while SCOPA Samoa will oversee the day-to-day project management and implementation in Samoa, ensuring construction is completed to a high standard.
The Association said the project represents far more than the construction of new buildings.
Modern science laboratories will provide students with improved opportunities for practical learning, experimentation and scientific research, helping prepare them for higher education and careers in STEM fields. The initiative also reflects SCOPA's commitment to strengthening educational opportunities and investing in Samoa's future through quality learning environments.
SCOPA NZ is encouraging all former Samoa College students to register and support the project by making a minimum pledge of NZ$100, with funds going directly towards the redevelopment of the three science laboratories.
As construction prepares to commence, the SCOPA STEM Project 2026 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when alumni unite with a shared purpose—giving back to their school and creating lasting opportunities for generations of Samoa College students to come.
Support the SCOPA STEM Project
To make a donation or register your support, please visit:🌐 www.scopa.nz
Together, we can build modern science laboratories and continue the Samoa College tradition of "Atamai e Tautua mo Samoa" — Excellence to Serve Samoa
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