Tourist industry boosted by training

Establishin g a new branch in Samoa of the New Zealand Martin Hautus Institute of Learning, is not everyone’s idea of a retirement plan.

But for the determined, dynamic couple, Pulotu Arthur Solomon and his wife, Maretta Tuasivi Solomon, this is exactly what they chose to do in 2013.

And in less than three short years, the Hospitality and Tourism school at Tiapapata has grown and developed with new buildings and an increasing roll.

Earlier this year, the couple were recognized by the New Zealand government and became Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education and the Pacific community

The Solomons had co-founded the Pacific Peoples Learning Institute, Martin Hautus (MHI) in New Zealand in1990 to cater to the growing number of predominantly Pacific learners who were failing in mainstream education.

But it is the progress and partnerships they have established in Samoa in such a short time that has the couple excited.

“We’d talked about what we wanted to do and we’ve done it,” declared Pulotu.

“We promised them (our students) two things. That we would get them through the nine certificates we are offering, and we would get them a job.”

To get them a job was a dream, a vision, Pulotu admitted. But with determination and by offering a strong relevant programme to potential employers, the future for their students is looking bright and that promise of jobs will be a reality, he believes.

Partnerships have already been formed with Le Manumea Hotel and the Sheraton.

Le Manumea provide work experience to six students each Thursday night while the Sheraton at Mulifanua, call on their students when they are accommodating large groups.

“The Sheraton in Apia have already asked for 80 students by the end of this year,” said Pulotu.

“They are very happy to be working with us,” said Pulotu.

“By linking up with the two hotels, we can ensure that (jobs) will happen.

At the request of their hotel partners, Pulotu said they are placing an emphasis on what is needed in the workplace.

“We really push our students’ interview skills and make sure they are up to scratch, like learning about the employer’s business.”

The thing the hotels like about our Institute is that we ensure our students speak English well, we smile a lot and we are very efficient – their service and their confidence.

“That is because of our tutors,” said Pulotu.

“Every morning when we meet as staff and students, it’s a big ‘Talofa’.

We want them to use that word talofa all the time with our visitors.

We’re very excited about this.

Meanwhile a new building is almost ready for occupancy.

It includes a teaching space for 170 pupils, a computer suite and offices.

And in a tribute to the organisation’s patron, and outstanding educator, Mr Pat Buckley, the building will carry his name when it is officially opened in 2016.

“It’s his 32 years of service to Education and because he’s done so much for Samoa,” said Pulotu.

Meanwhile on Monday night, the school will celebrate the New Zealand award by putting on a party.

“Our two families – the Vaotu’uas and Solomons, the students and the parents of our children will enjoy an evening together.”