A recent Commonwealth Alumni engagement event in Samoa brought together alumni, education partners, and scholarship stakeholders to renew connections, share experiences, and explore how a stronger network could contribute to the country’s future.
Held in October and hosted by the British High Commission in Samoa, the gathering marked an important step in building relationships with Commonwealth Alumni and laying the foundations for a more active alumni community.
Different voices, a shared ambition
The event provided a platform for different voices from across Samoa’s scholarship and education community to come together. The British High Commissioner, H.E. Andrew Nethercott, highlighted the value of Commonwealth Scholarships and the importance of educational and people-to-people links between the UK and Samoa. Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture explained the nomination process for agency nominated Commonwealth Scholarship opportunities and called on alumni to help prospective applicants access these opportunities.
Education partners, including the National University of Samoa, added another important perspective in demonstrating the impact of collaboration between alumni, scholarship bodies, and institutions in expanding access to opportunities and supporting Samoa’s development.
Alumni voices were central to the programme. Participants spoke about their scholarship journeys, professional achievements, and the transformation their studies had made to their careers and communities. Their reflections brought the impact of Commonwealth Scholarships to life, while open discussion enabled attendees to consider the successes and challenges of returning home after study. This exchange encouraged peer learning and showed how alumni can support one another through leadership, knowledge sharing, and mentorship.
Building a scholarship community
Looking ahead, participants expressed strong interest in maintaining regular contact, supporting future scholarship applicants, and establishing a formal Commonwealth Alumni Association in Samoa. Such a network could provide a lasting platform for collaboration, amplify alumni expertise, and connect members with shared priorities across the country.
The event concluded with a closing prayer and a shared commitment between all stakeholders to turn renewed connections into sustained action.
If you are a Commonwealth Scholar or Alumnus based in Samoa and would like to get involved in engagement events and opportunities, please contact alumni@cscuk.org.uk for more information.
