Value based education underscore human dignity and compassion.

In an event to commemorate the Human Rights Day 2023 in Samoa, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture Aeau Christopher Peter Hazelman delivered an enlightening speech on the right to education from a Samoan perspective.

“Intellectual based education, influences the head.” “Value based education influences the heart.”

Education that builds fundamental traits of character such as honesty, responsibility, taking initiative and not needing to be told, courage, persistence, is absolutely essential.

In his own view, Aeau believes, Samoa does not need more academic education, but needs more value-based education.

“There is no good in intellectual education without understanding human dignity and compassion,” Aeau added.

In the customary order for ceremonies, this event began with a prayer and a spiritual message in relation to Human Rights led by Rev. Elder Utufua Naseri.

The Acting Ombudsman Maualaivao Pepe Seiuli, then took the podium to acknowledged the presence and welcomed the distinguished guests, and elaborated on the mandatory functions of the National Human Right Institute and spoke specifically on the work of the Institute to facilitate commitment to promote right to education.

The UN Resident Coordinator Themba Kalua as one of the key speakers at the event also spoke of the relevance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights signed 75 years, in a time when the world is witnessing conflicts with women and children bearing the brunt of the violence and suffering; climate change that is threatening all of humanity, but especially Pacific Islanders like Samoans; and political divisions among governments which hinder effective international responses to these crises.

“This underscores the continued relevance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proving that its principles are as crucial today as they were 75 years ago.”

“It is a sobering reminder that we cannot take our human rights for granted, and that these crises result from human rights not being respected, implemented, or prioritized. We need a renewed commitment by all States to act in line with international law and the agreements which they themselves have crafted, and to jointly work to advance the common good.”

The event organized by the Office of the Ombudsman -National Human Rights Institution in Samoa with the support of the Resident Coordinator Office was an approach to revitalize awareness of human rights with a focus on the right to education.

The event also facilitated a panel discussion of members of National Human Rights Institute (NHRI) Staff and Advisory Council and UN agencies with programmes to promote and safeguard the right to education for all children and learners of all ages.

The event concluded with a special presentation of prizes for winners of the Poetry and Tik Tok competition to explain what the right to education means to them.