On Tuesday 24th September 2024, the Samoa CHOGM 2024 CERT & IT final training session commenced with an official ceremony to conclude a series of trainings since April 2024 led by keynote speaker Honourable Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo, Minister of Communications and Information Technology. He highlighted the crucial role of cybersecurity and IT innovations in shaping the future of the Commonwealth, reaffirming Samoa’s commitment to strengthening its digital infrastructure and collaboration with partner nations.
The opening was further graced by remarks from esteemed guests:
• Her Excellency Si’alei Van Toor, High Commissioner of New Zealand, emphasized the shared responsibility in ensuring a secure digital future for all member states.
• His Excellency William Robinson, High Commissioner of Australia, reiterated Australia’s support in advancing technological capacity and fostering a resilient digital environment across the Pacific.
Following the ceremonial speeches and the opening prayer by Father Mikaele Matafa, attendees had the opportunity to capture the moment with a group photo alongside the Minister, High Commissioners, and distinguished guests, symbolizing unity and collaboration across the Commonwealth.
With the successful launch of this significant event, we look forward to impactful sessions and discussions in the days ahead, further strengthening our collective CERT and IT capabilities.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this important journey towards a safer, smarter digital Commonwealth!
The latest chapter of our IT & Cybersecurity CHOGM Training, held from September 2nd to 4th, was nothing short of spectacular! Over these three days, our six amazing teams took the stage, presenting on topics they’ve mastered from previous sessions by CERT NZ.
From cybersecurity strategies to innovative tech solutions, each team showcased their knowledge, creativity, and teamwork. The presentations were not only informative but also highly entertaining, keeping everyone engaged and energized throughout the sessions!
We were also thrilled to have the Deloitte team from Australia join us for an introductory session. Their insights and expertise added tremendous value to our training, and we’re excited about the potential collaborations ahead!
A big shoutout to all the participants for their hard work and enthusiasm! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey towards CHOGM 2024!
We are pleased to announce the continuation of the IT and CERT CHOGM Training, which was held from the 20th to the 22nd of August. This three-day training covered essential topics, including incident response plan implementation, hands-on exercises, and cyber drills. A big thank you to all the participants and facilitators for their active involvement and dedication. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strengthen our cybersecurity readiness!
Apolima-tai Island Recap: Smart Island Project & Cyber Smart Roadshow Success!
On Wednesday 31st of July, we hosted a fantastic day of learning and community engagement as part of our Smart Island Project and Cyber Smart Roadshow programs on the lovely island of Apolima-tai! The day began with a message by Hon. Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua exploring how modern technology can benefit island communities, improve connectivity, and support sustainable development. Ms. Misa Victoria Lepou Acting ACEO from MCIT Policy Division provides insights on how policy frameworks can enhance the value of the Smart Island Project.
Following this, the spotlight shifted to the Cyber Smart Roadshow led by Ms. Fonoti Sakuma. She, along with Amanda Kisslings from CERT NZ, provided invaluable guidance on cybersecurity, covering topics like online safety, data protection, and how to recognize cyber threats. The presentations were informative and practical, equipping attendees with the knowledge needed to navigate the digital world confidently.
The Apolima community’s engagement and curiosity made the event a true highlight, showcasing their dedication to embracing technology and ensuring a safe digital environment for all.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to a wonderful day! Check out some of the highlights from our time together.
Together, we can build a safer and smarter digital future!
Manono-tai Island Recap: Smart Island Project & Cyber Smart Roadshow Highlights!
On Tuesday 30th of July, the vibrant island of Manono-tai came alive with digital innovation and learning as we hosted the Smart Island Project and Cyber Smart Roadshow programs! We kicked off the day with an insightful message by Hon. Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua, which focused on Smart Island Project initiatives on what was done and expectations in the future & discussing how technology can enhance island living and connectivity. Ms. Misa Victoria Lepou a representative from the Ministry of Communications & Information Technology as Acting ACEO for the Policy Division with remarks on how policy will add value to this project. In addition, Mr. Jobenz Manoa, a representative from contribution partners of this project from ITU was present.
The second half of the event transitioned into the Cyber Smart Roadshow, led by Ms. Fonoti Fiapaipai Sakuma, who provided crucial insights on cybersecurity. Alongside her, we were fortunate to have Ms. Amanda Kissling from CERT NZ, who shared practical tips on staying safe online and protecting personal information.
The day was filled with engaging presentations and interactive workshops, covering topics from secure digital practices to understanding cyber threats. The enthusiastic participation of the Manono-tai community was inspiring, demonstrating a strong commitment to digital safety and literacy.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event a success! Here are some snapshots capturing the best moments from the day.
Let’s continue to be Cyber Smart and enhance our digital communities!
Today marks the last day of our Consultation and Capacity Development Workshop on the National Data Governance Framework in Samoa! It’s been an incredible journey of learning and collaboration.
As we wrap up, we’re diving deeper into interactive workshops and collaborative sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and contribute to shaping the future of data governance in Samoa. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and work together towards building a stronger, more resilient data governance framework!
“Thank you to our partners, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) for sponsoring this consultation workshop, and we extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Communications & IT and USAID Digital Connectivity & Cybersecurity Partnerships for their support. We would also like to express our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has participated and contributed to making this workshop a success. Let’s make today count!”
Official Opening Session Ceremony for Capacity Development and Consultation Workshop on a Samoa National Data Governance Framework co-organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of the Government of Samoa with the support of USAID Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership.
On the 8-9 May 2024 – More than 60 representatives from Samoa and experts from around the world will gather in Apia on 8 to 9 May 2024 to take part in a Consultation and Capacity Development Workshop on a National Data Governance Framework in Samoa. The representatives will primarily be from Samoa Government offices and agencies, but joined by others from church groups, civil society, the private sector, NGOs, international organizations, and international governments. This Workshop will leverage the expertise and experiences of these participants, to share best practices and challenges in data governance – and to put their minds together to think about how to move forward in Samoa.
In today’s digital age, data has become the lifeblood of our society, driving innovation, shaping economies, and transforming industries. Honorable Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo, Minister for Communications and IT, Samoa. As we embark on this workshop on Data Governance, the Government of Samoa, recognize the importance of data as a strategic asset that must be managed and protected with the utmost care and responsibility.
With strong foundations in digital governance, Samoa is well-placed to move forward in further developing it strategies for data governance and increased efficiencies in public services.
“Data is an indispensable part of e-government…Indeed, data are integral to every sector and function of government. Many institutions would find it difficult, if not impossible, to function effectively without data”, said Mr. Juwang Zhu, Director of UN DESA’s Division for Public Institutions and Digital Government, “A national data governance framework is therefore critical.”
With the support of the USAID Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership. H.E Noriko Horiuchi, US Ambassador to Samoa said. “Digital data governance improves government responsiveness by predicting and addressing stakeholder needs from individuals, the private sector, and civil society.”
About the Workshop
The workshop is co-organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of the Government of Samoa with the support of USAID Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership.
It is being undertaken as part of the activities with Samoa, in a project run by UN DESA, supported by the UN Peace and Development Fund 2030 Agenda Sub-fund, entitled “Developing institutional capacities for digital data management and cooperation to advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals”, to support developing countries to assess key data management and governance challenges and strengthen government officials’ and stakeholders’ knowledge of sound and secure data management. This project seeks to address existing challenges and gaps in digital data management and cooperation, focusing on enhancing the institutional capacities of countries to utilize, manage and govern data in a comprehensive, objective and evidence-based manner.
• Lefaoalii Unutoa Auelua-Fonoti Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Communications, and Information Technology of Samoa: u.auelua-fonoti@mcit.gov.ws
• Leaso Ronnie Aiolupotea Deputy Chief Executive Officer/ Chief Cybersecurity Officer, Ministry of Communications, and Information Technology of Samoa : r.aiolupotea@mcit.gov.ws
• Wai Min Kwok, Senior Governance and Public Administration Officer, Division for Public Institutions and Digital Government, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs: kwok@un.org
Keynote Address: Afioga Lefaoalii Unutoa Auelua-Fonoti, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
GIRLS IN ICT
INTRODUCTION
Formal Salutation to:
• Reverend – Falevaai Ah Kuoi
• Madam Director of ITU Regional Office, Ms Atsuko Okuda
• Diplomatic Corp
• Teachers, Parents, Boys and Girls
• Ladies and Gentlemen
It is with great pleasure to be here with you this morning in the celebration of the GIRLS IN ICT DAY 2024. I am here to speak on behalf of the Hon Minister of ICT Afioga Hon Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo who is unavailable due to his many official commitments, and the government of Samoa to address you all today.
This is an annual event hosted by the Office of the Regulator in line with international programmes of the International Telecommunications Union.
(So, this is not a small event). This is the thirteenth event of its kind in Samoa, and in 2018 we celebrated it in the big island of Savaii for the first time. Taking this to Savaii was a great achievement for us in bringing awareness to the ladies living in the Big Island. But I am prouder of the fact that it was during our time at OOTR back in 2011 who recommended this and started celebrating this special day to the then Regulator Donnie De Freitas.
I would also like at this point to acknowledge the ITU and their continue support to all member countries including Samoa on many aspects of ICT, Engineering, Broadcasting, Telecommunication and Connectivity. I also acknowledge the presence here today of Madam Atsuko Okuda who is the ITU Regional Director which covers the whole of Asia Pacific and Australasia.
This year’s theme for the Girls in ICT Day celebrations is “LEADERSHIP”, to underscore the critical need for strong female role models in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Although the situation in Samoa is different, with women (girls) outnumbering men (boys) in filling high-skill occupations, the boy’s participation in STEM related fields continue to be low. In terms of Leadership roles in the work force, the situation is quite different. Women (girls) are nearly absent from software development, engineering, technology research, academia as well as at the highest levels of policy making.
While there is a leadership gender gap in every industry, the largest gaps are found in the STEM fields. Girls in ICT often find themselves in junior or supporting roles rather than in managerial roles, with little opportunity for advancement. They are also less likely to hold an executive position, become ICT entrepreneurs or be represented among science and technology policymakers. To succeed in STEM, girls and young women must be exposed to women in leadership positions, fostering inspiration and breaking barriers that hinder their progress.
Now I would like to turn to the girls and boys who are celebrating with us here today.
This is your day. Take part in ongoing discussions, you should confidently take the floor, engage, and lead the conversation! We need your imagination to obliterate the word impossible. Everything that you dream, is Possible especially the creation of a more digitally inclusive and equitable future. We need you to lead the technological revolution that is redefining our world. You can easily become a Leader in ICTs if you are not afraid to speak up when you attend meetings or conference and write about your experience.
Let me remind you that Girls in ICT Day celebration is about Leadership. Do away with the notion that a leader is just a title. A leader is a dreamer with a vision for change and gets the job done. So, in cases where things seem tough, that is where leaders stand out and stand up! Technology is a tool, be it Artificial Intelligence, Big Data or Internet of Things. If you master these technologies, combined with your boldness to succeed, you will emerge a winning leader.
For this years’ Girls in ICT Day, I am urging and inviting you to make a life changing choice here and now, to utilize the knowledge that you attain today and during your studies seeking leadership opportunities to serve various capacities in the ICT sector including engineer, IT programmer, lawyer and economist specialized in the field of ICT, and more. Your contribution big or small makes a difference not only for yourself but your family, village and Samoa.
I commend the foresight of the Principals and Teachers of schools who have accepted the invitation to participate in this year’s event and I am confident it is a positive leadership decision, Faafetai tele.
On that note, today offers you a path to experience and knowledge in the digital society, with which creates so many opportunities that will shape our Samoa as a modernized nation.
So as a special note for all the girls and boys here, I wish you all the best in overcoming the impossible should you choose a career path in Information and Communication Technology Leadership.
: MCIT
Over these three days, our six amazing teams took the stage, presenting on topics they’ve mastered from previous sessions by CERT NZ.
The presentations were 
Date: Thursday 9th May, 2024
Venue: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, Apia, Samoa
English 
Samoan