Pago Pago, American Samoa – Lieutenant Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr. met with Dr. Keao NeSmith to discuss translating renowned literary works into Samoan.
Dr. NeSmith, a fluent Hawaiian and English speaker, earned his PhD in Applied Linguistics from the University of Waikato in New Zealand in 2012. His doctoral research focused on language teaching theory and practice.
Dr. NeSmith has translated several classic literary works into Hawaiian, including "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone." He aims to make these literary treasures accessible to Samoan-speaking children.
Lieutenant Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr., who assumed office on January 3, 2025, expressed appreciation for Dr. NeSmith's dedication. He highlighted the significance of collaborations in ensuring cultural heritage remains vibrant.
The Lieutenant Governor extended gratitude to Dr. NeSmith and the Samoan Language Commission Office. He presented Dr. NeSmith with gifts as a gesture of appreciation.
The government of American Samoa looks forward to supporting similar initiatives. The goal is to make Samoan literature more accessible to young readers and strengthen their connection to their native tongue.