Tusi Tala, Staff Writer
A new publication by Ta’iao Dr. Matiu Tautunu, the Director of Samoan Studies at the National University of Samoa, provides important insights into traditional Samoan culture and language.
Inspired by the university’s “Samoa Fa’asoa” broadcast series during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, “Samoa Fa’asoa Lōmiga 1” is the inaugural volume of a series aimed at empowering the Samoan community through a deeper understanding of various Samoan dialects.
This book features traditional Samoan proverbs, discussions about matai dialects, and practical examples relevant to everyday life in Samoan culture.
Ta’iao explained, “The Samoa Fa’asoa program facilitates conversations shared on television, allowing the people of Samoa to engage and respond.”
The initiative originated from a suggestion by the then Vice Chancellor to compile the discussions from the broadcasts into a book.
“Aiono Dr. Alec Ieroma proposed the idea of transforming the TV broadcasts into a book, which is how it began,” Ta’iao noted.
He expressed gratitude for the support of the current Vice Chancellor, Tuifuisaa Patila Amosa, in making this project a reality. At the book’s launch, Tuifuisaa emphasized its significance for students and all Samoans, both at home and abroad.
Marysalesa Tautunu, Ta’iao’s daughter, reminisced about her father’s journey: “I always dropped Dad off for filming,” she recalled. “I learned some proverbs in school, and this book helps us see how to apply them in life. It can truly guide us.”
The book is divided into three sections: Folasaga, focusing on traditional proverbs; Folafolaga o Fa’aaloaloga (To’ana’i, Sua, ‘Ava), which discusses respectful language in various contexts; and Lauga ‘Ese’ese, showcasing different lectures by speakers.
Spanning 89 pages, the book is entirely written in Samoan. As “Samoa Fa’asoa Lōmiga 1” becomes available in local stores, there is hope that it will instill important values and life lessons, encouraging Samoans to connect with their cultural heritage and language.
