Students in Samoa who have received scholarships to study in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji have been warned to not stray from their studies.
Samoa PM, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi Photo: RNZ Pacific / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
In a speech to a gathering of 66 students, prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said they will be sent home if they do not concentrate on their studies and instead indulge in alcohol.
Tuilaepa said the scholarships are funded by the governments of Australia and New Zealand, and the opportunity should not be squandered.
"I convey special gratitude for the assistance in providing these opportunities. The governments of Australia and New Zealand have not only provided tertiary education opportunities for the [National University of Samoa] foundation students but also for those working in the private and public sectors."
Aid funding from New Zealand totalled $US17.8 million for 2015 to 2016 and is used for tourism, energy, education, law and justice and health.
