The Chief Executive of the Ministry of Education in Samoa says a new teachers' council will improve standards in the islands.
A bill has been passed in parliament, creating the body to oversee the work of local teachers.
Students at a mission school in Samoa dancing Photo: RNZI/supplied Tipi
The Prime Minister says the council will bring teachers in line with other professions such as dentists, accountants and engineers.
CEO Matafeo Falanaipupu Tanielu Aiafi says the creation of the council will benefit the children of Samoa.
"Research has shown that the quality of education depends on the quality of our teachers. Times have changed and things have changed. Also the approach to teaching, the approach to learning in terms of the curriculum has changed and therefore we really need to be serious about this and set up this body and make sure that the teachers are well qualified to teach our children."
Matafeo says the council hopes to be in place for the new school year.