The fun-filled day gathered five of the ten Department of Education (DOE) elementary schools involved in the Just Play Programme for the current school year.
During the opening ceremony FFAS executive committee member Amio Mavaega-Luvu ordered the kids to “have fun, be happy and enjoy your festival today”, but they hardly needed the encouragement.
With fun activities and small-sided games organised by the Just Play teachers and volunteers there was plenty to keep them busy.
“For three hours it was great fun for all the kids, especially those from Aunu’u School and some of the parents as it was their first time here at the field,” DOE PE specialist Valusia Talataina said.
Afonotele, A.P. Lutali Elementary (Aunu’o_, Aua, Altafao and Matatula were the five schools involved this time around, receiving support and encouragement form the upper levels of the DOE.
“Just Play might not be only for you to just play, but to actually spend time outdoors,” pointed out Netini Sene, assistant director for the Office of Cirriculum and Instruction.
While other DOE staff said the programme is the perfect jumping off point for future healthy living with the good habits learnt here, set to continue throughout their lives.
FFAS CEO Tavita Taumua was positive about the event and its success.
“DOE Director Vaitinasa Dr. Salu Hunkin-Finau stopped by and said she was very thankful to witness the programme at our field and said that it was in line with one of Governor Lolo M. Moliga’s wishes to promote healthy living for the young children of our community,” Taumua said.
“It was great to hear this from her, especially since our partnership with the DOE is one that we are very proud to have and hope to continue for a very long time.”
The organisers all agreed that the programme is one successful avenue the DOE is using to help fight against the growing plague of childhood obesity.
“This is the beginning of a long fight against obesity for our school children,” Sene said.
“Stay fit and healthy so that you can carry out any dreams that you have for the future.”

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