01/Dec/2021-31/Dec/2025

Tautua Human Development for All Facility

Australia DFAT

Samoa

Administration Management

The Tautua Human Development for All program (Tautua) is an AUD40M investment over eight years (four years with an additional four-year option) that supports Samoa to unlock progress on critical social issues. The goal for Tautua is ‘improved health, education, gender equality and social incomes, and social harmony for all Samoans”. Its objective, in support of the broader goal, is ‘an enduring relationship between Samoa and Australia that supports Samoa to pursue its human development agenda in line with Samoa’s national priorities and interests’.

Worked as a key local partner to deliver the following: high-quality advisory inputs, and selected operational support including employment contracting and payroll services.

04/Aug/2014-30/Nov/2014

Imagine Science & Technology Centre

Education & Science Foundation (Samoa)

Samoa

Business Development

The project supported the Education and Science Foundation, a charitable trust, in developing an interactive Science and Technology Centre in Apia. The Centre aims to inspire enthusiasm for science in preschool and school-age children through exhibits that link scientific theory with practical application.

To assist in developing the feasibility study and in planning and budgeting for the project.

01/Feb/2013-31/Mar/2013

System Assessment & Benchmarking Education for Results – Early Childhood Development

World Bank

Samoa

Survey

The SABER-ECD survey is a standard evidence-based survey being used across countries to help understand what is happening in early childhood development and what assistance can be determined from the data gathered. The survey was requested by the Government of Samoa, as the results were to be used in helping to identify areas of assistance in the coordination of a sector which is very fragmented.

Gathered information in-person in 20 individual interviews with key experts in the early childhood sector; recorded that information in the required standard template; obtained electronic copies of reports, regulations, legislation etc. quoted by the experts in their interviews, and supplied them to the client.

04/Oct/2012-29/Jun/2012

Small Countries Financial Management Programme Effectiveness: Evaluation

Small Countries Financial Management Centre (SCFMC)

Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu

Evaluation

The evaluation assessed the two-week SCFM Programme against its stated objectives; assessed the quality, relevance, and practical usefulness of what was taught; determined the benefit that participants derived from the programme after they returned home; assessed the actions that they took and their effectiveness; reviewed the governance and management arrangements; derived lessons learned and areas for improvement; and identified gaps that might require particular attention in the future.

Analysed the post-course assessment forms completed by course participants; compared the feedback received in the post-course assessment forms with perceptions of participants after they had returned to their jobs; assessed the quality and usefulness of the two-week programme; conducted an assessment based on interviews with supervisors, peers and direct reports, as well as other stakeholders of the effectiveness of the initiatives put in place as a result of the programme.

01/Feb/2012-01/May/2012

Review of Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development

Government of Samoa

Samoa

Evaluation

Reviewed the performance of the Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education over the prior five year period against its mandate, which was to provide short-term formal in-country training and professional development, in accordance to training needs analysis by employers in both government and private sector organisations. The review also considered the location of the centre within the NUS organisation structure, and whether the current stand-alone arrangement should continue.

Assessed the financial and education outcomes, through a series of consultative meetings with stakeholders.

01/Jul/2011-31/Mar/2013

Sector Wide Education Medium Term Expenditure Framework Development

Government of Samoa

Samoa

Financial Analysis

The overall objective of the Samoa Education Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) is to ensure the quality and relevance of spending, by allocating resources to areas of greatest potential benefit and by introducing an evaluation of actual benefits. It does this by bringing together three concepts: introducing more rigorous cost analysis of government expenditure to establish the baseline budget in particular teacher salaries; policy performance monitoring and evaluation, understanding what has not worked and what needs to be achieved; and identifying and forecasting the amount of funds needed.

Delivered were an inception report; monthly progress reports; a sector-wide education MTEF which included: a cost analysis of education sector projects and programmes; a financial impact statement of Ministry of Education Sports and Culture projects and programmes; and an updated analysis of SchoolNet sustainability. A training and implementation plan for the roll out of the MTEF was also developed.

21/Mar/2011-30/Sep/2011

Upgrading of Former Samoa Polytechnic: Post-Project Evaluation

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

KVAConsult Ltd was sub-contracted to Ernst & Young for this assignment, to assist with the post-project evaluation of the JICA project to upgrade and extend Samoa Polytechnic.

Organised the programme for the first field visit and questionnaire for data collection; conducted a Beneficiary Survey with 100 beneficiaries; participated in meetings and site visits to assess equipment and collect information; submitted the Beneficiary Survey tabulation report; completed itinerary arrangements for a second field visit; submitted a summary report describing tasks undertaken and key results.

17/Jun/2010-16/Feb/2011

Grassroots Human Security (various): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Facilitated communication between stakeholders on the implementation of the following Grassroots projects: Relocation & reconstruction of Saleapaga Primary School; Reconstruction of Saleaaumua Primary School; Reconstruction of Aleisa Primary School; Reconstruction of Vailoa Faleata Primary School; Reconstruction of Lufilufi District Hospital; Construction of Incinerator for Healthcare Waste Management.

Role included meeting with government agencies and community groups as well as periodic site visits. Acted as the communication conduit between grant recipients, JICA and the Embassy of Japan.

15/May/2009-14/Aug/2009

Grassroots Human Security (5 schools): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Facilitated communication between stakeholders on the implementation of the following projects: Reconstruction of Faletolu Primary School; Reconstruction of Fasitoo-uta Primary School; Reconstruction of Iva Primary School; Reconstruction of Matatufu Primary School; Reconstruction of Vailoa Aleipata School.

Prepared periodic progress reports for each project submitted at completion of each phase as follows: foundation phase; wall phase; roof phase; electrical phase; windows and doors phase; finishing phase; completion.

01/Apr/2008-01/Feb/2009

Interschool Sports Violence: Independence Review

Government of Samoa

Samoa

Review

KVAConsult was requested to undertake an independent study of approaches to reducing the violence occurring at and after inter-school sports competitions. The findings and recommendations of the independent study were reported to Cabinet, which established guidelines for inter-school sports. The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture was to implement the decisions and report back to Cabinet.

Undertook consultations with key stakeholders; submitted a report for Cabinet to consider and the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture to implement.

01/May/2007-31/May/2007

Samoa In-country Training Transition

NZAID

Samoa

Structural Reform

Clarified and advanced the transition plan for the localisation of the In-country Training programme to enable management and implementation by mid-2008.

Evaluated in-country training programme models in other Pacific countries; consulted development partners, MESC and tertiary education institution representatives, drafted report.

01/Feb/2007-01/Mar/2007

Japan Official Development Assistance in the Education Sector: Evaluation

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

The education sector evaluation framework for Samoa specifically looked at the objectives and relevance of the development assistance in terms of consistency with various stakeholders’ development strategies.

Evaluated the consistency of the Government of Japan’s ODA strategies with Samoa’s sector-wide and national development strategies, as well as assistance from other development partners. Assessed the effectiveness and impact of Japanese-funded projects, including post-project operations and maintenance at facilities such as the National University and rebuilt schools. Reviewed the appropriateness of design and formulation processes, stakeholder consultation, and coordination, and examined implementation structures and inter-scheme coordination. The evaluation aimed to determine how well Japanese ODA aligned with national priorities, supported sustainable outcomes, and complemented other development partner initiatives to maximise sectoral impact and operational efficiency.

01/Jan/2007-01/Mar/2007

Grassroots Human Security: Future Project Identification

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

JICA provides grassroots human security through its Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP), a scheme that offers small-scale funding to support development projects at the community level. Common projects include building schools and clinics, or providing infrastructure for water and sanitation, with a focus on improving the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.

Undertook consultations and negotiations with relevant school committees and applicants’ representatives; conducted site visits, prepared site maps, background information (project and financial), engineering and structural reports; obtained support letters from Ministry of Education; prepared costings for construction and procurement; undertook analysis and review of costing against budgets; assisted in preparing formal applications on behalf of applicants; submitted final report and recommendations to client.

01/Jan/2007-31/Mar/2007

Grassroots Human Security (3 primary, 1 secondary): Project Preparation

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Planning

Project preparatory surveys for the reconstruction of school building facilities (Itu-o-Tane Secondary, Vaimea Primary, Saleapaga Primary, Leulumoega Tuai Primary) as well as a public health service project.

Organised consultations and negotiations with relevant school committees and applicants’ representatives; conducted site visits, prepared site maps, background information (project and financial), engineering and structural reports; sourced support letters from Ministry of Education; prepared costings for construction and procurement; analysed and reviewed costs against budgets; assisted in preparing formal applications of behalf of applicants; submitted final report and recommendations to client.

01/Dec/2006-31/Mar/2007

NUS/IoT Graduate Tracer Study Database Creation

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Data Analysis

KVAConsult was sub-contracted to KRI International of Japan for the assignment. The objectives of the project were to create a database of graduates for use in the NUS/IoT tracer study and to plan and conduct trial village surveys.

Obtained a list of graduates; prepared questionnaire to be used during the trial village surveys; designed and created the graduate database; reviewed the tracer study strategy; planned and conducted trial village surveys; compiled and analysed information collected; prepared and submitted completion report.

01/Apr/2006-01/Jul/2006

Grassroots Human Security (various): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Managed and monitored reconstruction and equipment procurement projects under the Grassroots Human Security Grant Aid Programme in Upolu and Savaii, including Sataoa Primary School, Apolima-uta Primary School, Laumua o Punaoa Polytechnic, Don Bosco Technical Centre, and integrated farming initiatives, ensuring timely implementation, reporting, and effective resource utilisation.

Organised and managed logistics for signing ceremonies under the Grassroots Programme between the Embassy of Japan and beneficiary organisations. Served as the primary communication channel among the Embassy, JICA, beneficiaries, bankers, suppliers, and builders. Administered bank accounts, Grassroots funding, and procurement processes, including tendering, purchase orders, payments, and record-keeping. Oversaw supply of construction and building materials and conducted regular site visits to monitor project progress, quality, and compliance with standards. Provided ongoing support to ensure timely implementation, effective resource management, and transparent reporting. Services aimed to facilitate smooth execution of projects and maintain strong coordination among all stakeholders involved in the programme.

01/Dec/2005-01/Mar/2006

Grassroots Human Security: Post-Project Monitoring of 2003 Projects

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

KVAConsult Ltd was commissioned to conduct post-project evaluation reports on projects’ status, impact and performance for projects implemented under the Grassroots Human Security Grant Aid Programme for the financial years 2000 to 2003. Projects evaluated were: FY 2003 Rehabilitation of Puapua Primary School, Reconstruction of Fagafau/Samata-i-tai Primary School, Reconstruction of Faleula Primary School, Reconstruction of Vailuutai Primary School, Construction of Water Tanks at Gataivai, Reconstruction of Lefaga Secondary School.

Conducted interviews with beneficiary representatives; conducted site visits and inspections; reviewed operational and maintenance programmes; assessed status of school buildings, water tanks and equipment procured under the programme, and usage of facilities and equipment; assessed impact of assistance under the Grassroots Programme and whether aims and objectives of the projects had been achieved.

01/Dec/2005-01/Mar/2006

Grassroots Human Security (Malie Primary): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Project management, monitoring and reporting for the reconstruction of Malie Primary School facilities.

Organised and managed the signing ceremony for the Grassroots Programme between the Embassy of Japan and Malie Primary School Committee. Facilitated ongoing coordination among the Embassy, JICA, School Committee, bankers, suppliers, and builders. Administered bank accounts, Grassroots funding, and the tendering and procurement processes, including purchase orders, payments, and record-keeping. Conducted regular site visits to inspect construction progress, ensure quality standards, and monitor project implementation. Provided comprehensive support to ensure timely delivery of materials, effective resource management, and smooth collaboration among all stakeholders, contributing to the successful execution of school reconstruction and improvement projects under the programme.

01/Dec/2005-01/Mar/2006

Grassroots Human Security: Post-Project Monitoring of 2001 Projects

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

KVAConsult Ltd conducted post-project evaluations of the Grassroots Human Security Grant Aid Programme (FY 2000–2003), assessing status, impact, and performance. FY 2001 projects included school upgrades and reconstruction, audio-visual education training at the National University of Samoa, and construction or rehabilitation of water tanks and health centres across Samoa.

Conducted interviews with beneficiary representatives; conducted site visits and inspections; reviewed operational and maintenance programmes; assessed status of school buildings, water tanks and equipment procured under the programme, and usage of facilities and equipment; assessed impact of assistance under the Grassroots Programme and whether aims and objectives of the projects had been achieved.

01/Nov/2005-01/Mar/2006

Grassroots Human Security (Satupaitea Primary): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Project management, monitoring and reporting for the reconstruction of Satupaitea Primary School building facilities.

Organised all logistics for the Grassroots Programme signing ceremony between the Embassy of Japan and the Satupaitea Primary School Committee. Facilitated ongoing discussions among the Embassy, JICA, the School Committee, bankers, suppliers, and builders to ensure smooth project implementation. Negotiated, opened, operated, and monitored the School Committee’s bank account and administered all Grassroots funding. Managed the tendering process for construction and building materials, prepared purchase orders, processed supplier payments, and maintained detailed records of supplies and vendors. Conducted regular site visits to monitor construction progress, ensure compliance with standards, and provide support to the Committee throughout the project lifecycle.

01/Oct/2005-01/Jan/2006

Grassroots Human Security (6 schools & water tank): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Project management, monitoring and reporting for the reconstruction of school building facilities (Taga Primary, Saoluafata Primary, Falelatai Primary, Faleasiu Primary, Patamea Primary, Vaipua Fogasavaii Primary) and supply of water tanks for Mauga.

Provided overall guidance and direction throughout the various stages of each project; assisted with report on preparatory survey; undertook consultations with Embassy of Japan, JICA and beneficiaries; assisted with monthly report and completion report to Embassy of Japan and JICA; managed and monitored project funds; organised grant contract signing ceremony; liaised between suppliers and beneficiaries; monitored material order and supply; conducted site visits to monitor and to report project progress; assisted in consultations between project beneficiaries and building contractors.

01/Feb/2004-01/Dec/2004

Grassroots Human Security (5 schools): Project Management

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Project Management

Project management, monitoring and reporting for the reconstruction of school building facilities (Fagafau/Samata-i-tai Primary, Lefaga Secondary, Faleula Primary, Vailuutai Primary, Puapua Primary).

Provided overall guidance and direction throughout the various stages of each project; assisted with report on preparatory survey; undertook consultations with Embassy of Japan, JICA and beneficiaries; assisted with monthly report and completion report to Embassy of Japan and JICA; managed and monitored project funds; organised grant contract signing ceremony; liaised between suppliers and beneficiaries; monitored material order and supply; conducted site visits to monitor and to report project progress; assisted in consultations between project beneficiaries and building contractors.

05/Jan/2004-19/Mar/2004

Effective Assistance for Advanced Vocational Education

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Programme Formulation

The purpose of the study was to find the optimum approach for technical assistance (TA) for vocational training in Samoa and to produce basic data on the labour market. The specific activities involved were: description of the present state of supply and demand in the vocational labour market; gathering data on supply and demand in the vocational labour market; proposing a conceptual strategy in the form of a five-year plan for JICA for technical assistance for vocational training in Samoa.

Team Leader: drafted questionnaires for supply and demand surveys, conducted consultations with JICA, prepared the five-year plan for technical assistance in vocational training, and edited the final report. Senior Consultant: selected sample respondents, recruited and trained surveyors, supervised survey implementation, tabulated and analysed survey data, drafted the final report incorporating input from JICA, conducted consultations with JICA, Samoa Polytechnic, and NUS, and briefed the CEO and senior management of MESC on behalf of JICA. Research Assistant: supported the recruitment and training of surveyors, assisted with survey administration, data collection, and preliminary analysis to ensure smooth project execution and data quality.

04/Jan/2004-01/Feb/2004

Improvements in Education Sector: Evaluation

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

To assess the impact that Japan’s assistance to the Education Sector has made.

Reviewed and assessed the impact of Japan’s education infrastructure and equipment projects on teaching and learning.

01/Jan/2002-01/Feb/2002

USPNet Satellite Dish: Post-Project Monitoring

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Fiji, Samoa

Evaluation

The project was to obtain, for JICA, feedback on the utilisation of the USPNet facility. This was to be used to gauge any future assistance or development.

Services provided: preparation of the main questionnaire; consultation with USPNet staff at Alafua and Suva Campuses (through teleconferencing) on the issues pertaining to the project; evaluation of results and information obtained from the questionnaire; conducted site visit to photograph equipment; wrote final report.

01/Feb/2001-01/Oct/2001

Education Sector Support

Government of Samoa, Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Samoa

Programme Formulation

The project attempted: to increase equity of access to a relevant, efficient and higher quality, public primary and secondary education system; to improve the overall quality of primary and secondary education; and to build institutional capacity to prepare, design and implement sub-projects.

Identified potential stakeholders in the project and analysed their project-related information and education needs; identified education campaigns needed in relation to a satellite schools strategy; identified the most appropriate means and media for the education campaign; assisted in coordinating production of the required information and educational materials; managed the dissemination of information and the implementation of the campaigns; assisted in establishing sustainable mechanisms and channels for communication with stakeholders.

16/Oct/2000-20/Oct/2000

Staff Selection & Appraisal: Skills Training Workshop

Government of Samoa, AusAID

Samoa

Training and Capacity Building

This workshop for members of the senior management team of Samoa Polytechnic and other educational institutes from around the country, looked at improving their knowledge and skills regarding staff selection and appraisal processes, to improve their ability to recruit quality staff for their organisations.

Suggested options to improve staff performance; facilitated discussions in relation to job descriptions, selection and appraisal methods; advised on improving existing job induction processes and procedures within educational institutions; assisted workshop participants to map job selection processes and to identify personnel to be responsible for tasks at various levels of the process; highlighted the capacity of this process to create policy options for the organisation.

01/Feb/2000-01/Mar/2000

NUS Construction: Post-Project Monitoring

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

The project was to enable JICA to have feedback on the utilisation of facilities at the National University of Samoa (NUS). This would be used to gauge any future assistance or developments.

Design of the main questionnaire that was sent to stakeholders; the gathering of relevant information for use in the project eg the equipment and facilities list; discussions with management of NUS and the JICA advisor to NUS regarding the utilisation and maintenance of facilities and equipment; undertaking site visits as well as photographing facilities as part of the report; compilation of the final report.

01/Oct/1999-01/Apr/2000

Master Plan (1995-2005): Mid-term Review

Government of Samoa

Samoa

Review

Project involved a mid-term review of the Samoa Polytechnic Master Plan 1995-2005. Following on from the review was the formulation of modified recommendations for the forthcoming five years of the Master Plan.

Assessed and reported on the relevance, effectiveness, and applicability of the Master Plan objectives and strategies against current and future vocational education and training needs in Samoa. Identified strengths and weaknesses of the 1995–1999 implementation phase. Proposed realistic EFTS levels and developed a statistical definition of an EFTS unit. Evaluated training programme effectiveness, recommended objectives for programme management systems, and assessed the support provided by Samoa Polytechnic administration. Analysed implications of proposed changes and strategies, providing evidence-based recommendations. Prepared detailed reports to guide improvements in programme delivery, management, and alignment with national vocational education and training priorities.

01/Sep/1997-01/Nov/1998

Samoa Polytechnic Equipment Supply: Post-Project Monitoring

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan

Samoa

Evaluation

The evaluation was to monitor the condition of the engineering workshop equipment transferred to Samoa Polytechnic by Japan, to assess maintenance operations and the impact of the project, and to assist JICA in identifying areas where further assistance or replacement of parts was necessary.

Coordinated the work-plan; carried out the field-work which included interviews, questionnaires and photographic records; collated and analysed the overall feedback from trainees; drafted the evaluation report and made the presentation to JICA officials.

01/Apr/1994-01/May/1994

UPY Programme Review

Government of Samoa, NZ MFAT

Samoa

Review

The review was prompted by the need to evaluate whether the quality of the University Preparatory Year (UPY) programme was adequate to prepare students for university studies overseas. The review was an extension of the implementation by the Council of the National University of Samoa of its long range plan to diversify its programmes. The review identified and recommended steps to address a number of administrative, teaching and social issues necessary to improve the performance of UPY programme graduates.

Coordinated the field-work of the team in Apia and the preparation and presentation of the review report to the Council of the National University of Samoa.

01/Apr/1994-01/Aug/1994

Western Samoa Polytechnic Strategic Plan (1995-2004)

WS Polytech

Samoa

Planning

A master plan was deemed necessary at the formative phase of the Western Samoa Polytechnic when it transformed from a Technical Institute to a fully-fledged polytechnic. The master plan focused on improving the quality of the teaching programme through upgrading the course structures and assessment procedures, together with improving the skills of the administrative and teaching staff. A long range physical facilities upgrade programme was set out to concentrate on maintenance of existing facilities and seek funding for a major construction project in the second phase.

Coordinated the preparation of the work-plan and aid proposal for funding the technical assistance from UNDP and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to prepare the master plan; coordinated the inputs from an educational administration expert and an architect provided by a New Zealand firm, Extra Skills; carried out a survey of core competencies required by industry to gauge and adjust the polytechnic courses so as to improve their effectiveness.