Students who completed instruction in basic molecular biology methods and life science laboratory techniques, received certificates last Friday.
78 students from public and private high schools completed the course work held at the American Samoa Community College.
The ASCC Agriculture, Community and Natural Resources (ACNR) Division, the American Samoa Department of Education (DoE), Office of Curriculum and Instruction (OCI) Science and Pacific STEP UP, teamed up for the Molecules of Life Explorations.
The program, provided without charge to the students, had 96 student applicants.
DOE instructors, OCI Specialists and ASCC-ACNR staff provided training and supervision.
Instruction included proper safety precautions and techniques for molecular-level analysis of the macromolecules responsible for biological activity—techniques commonly employed in molecular biology labs around the world.
At the certificate presentation Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Rosevonne Pato reminded students of American Samoa’s need, for more individuals with a background in science.
In addition to their present certificates of completion the students also received a small gift basket.
The second phase of Molecules of Life Explorations is scheduled to begin in September.
