Human Resources conducts personnel training for Cabinet

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the Department of Human Resources (DHR) conducted a Personnel Training session for Cabinet members at DYWA Tafuna. The training aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the department’s processes and procedures.

Among the attendees were Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and members of his Cabinet.

In his remarks, Pulaali’i expressed appreciation for the initiative and reaffirmed his support for the training. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that leaders responsible for serving the community and managing employment matters have a clear understanding of proper recruitment and employment procedures.

Encouraging open discussions on human resources, he acknowledged the ongoing scrutiny surrounding confirmation hearings for directors but reassured his administration that “there is no cause for concern.

“Our administration is now three months in, and we remain committed to moving forward, serving our people with honesty and integrity.”

The Governor also underscored the significance of the training in clarifying employment contracts, required clearances, and exit procedures. He stressed the necessity for both employers and employees to fully understand contractual obligations and administrative codes, ensuring efficiency and proper service delivery.

Addressing his administration, Governor Pulaali’i urged all members to uphold integrity in their roles.

“In light of the prevailing negativity, complaints, and scrutiny, I strongly encourage all members to execute their duties with integrity and honest governance.

This principle formed a core pillar of the campaign platform of the Honorable Lieutenant Governor and myself, and its implementation is essential to restore the trust of the public in our government.”

The Governor concluded by expressing gratitude, encouraging continued dedication.

The Director of the DHR, Titiaoali’i Dr. Asenati Sa’au-Umi highlighted the crucial role of the HR Department and emphasized that the department plays a foundational role in an employee's journey, highlighting its far-reaching impact on compliance, compensation, employee satisfaction, and retention.

Regarding recruitment, the Director noted that their focus extends beyond hiring individuals; they strive to select candidates who will not only contribute to the organization's growth but also advance their own professional development.

The training featured breakout sessions led by DHR staff, covering various topics relevant to the department and its employees.

BACKGROUND

So far, 4 appointees for directors have not been confirmed by the Fono. Both chambers — House & Senate — in the Fono must pass a nominee for confirmation.

The appointee for director of the DMWR was not confirmed by the House, as well as the head of the Budget Office. For the Senate, the first appointee for the Procurement Office was not confirmed and, the nominee for Parks & Recreation also faced opposition.

The Parks & Rec appointee has been re-nominated by the governor and his confirmation hearing will once again take place in the next session of the 39th Legislature. It’s unknown if the governor will re-nominate the same person for Budget Office.

The DMWR and Procurement Office now have directors after the governor submitted new nominees for confirmation.

The Fono is also asking for confirmation hearings for heads of offices that are under the auspices of the Governor’s Office. In addition, it is asking for the names of those that have been hired as Oversight Directors and Advisors to cabinet department directors. There has been no formal response from the governor about the Fono’s requests.

Remarks made by the governor during the DHR Personnel Training is the first time the governor has publicly acknowledged the ongoing scrutiny surrounding confirmation hearings for directors.