III.

Population and Education

Samoans constitute about 89 per cent of the population; the remainder are of Tongan, Caucasian, or other origin. The Samoans are a branch of the Polynesian people. Their language is considered to be one of the oldest forms of Polynesian used today, though most Samoans also speak English. The majority of Samoans are Christians; although some of the practices of their traditional, animistic religions may still be followed, these traditional religions have virtually disappeared. Samoan society is organized around the extended family, or aiga, headed by a chief (matai). Traditional houses (fale) have oval, thatched roofs and are supported on wooden poles.

Since the mid-20th century the birth rate has declined gradually, while the death rate has remained stable. Education is free and compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 18. The Department of Education operates 54 centres for early education, 23 elementary schools, 5 high schools, and a vocational technical college; there are also several schools managed by the private sector. In the consolidated public elementary schools, television is used for instruction purposes. The literacy rate is 97 per cent.