National University of Samoa Signs Strategic Frugal AI Collaboration Agreement with the Commonwealth of Learning

Apia, Samoa, July 2026 – The National University of Samoa (NUS) is pleased to announce the signing of a landmark collaboration agreement with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) to participate in an international initiative focused on the exploration, adaptation and implementation of Frugal Artificial Intelligence (Frugal AI) solutions for the higher education sector. Under the agreement, NUS will work with COL to customise and test Frugal AI approaches and frameworks suited to the Samoan context and the needs of Pacific Island nations.

The partnership positions NUS among a network of Commonwealth institutions contributing to the development of innovative, cost-effective and sustainable AI solutions that are accessible to countries with limited computing resources and infrastructure. Through the project, NUS will support the testing and development of the Frugal AI reference framework, open-source large language models and AI applications, while contributing technical knowledge, case studies and lessons learned to the wider Commonwealth community.

Frugal AI is an approach to artificial intelligence that prioritises efficiency, affordability, accessibility and sustainability. Rather than relying on expensive proprietary platforms and large-scale computing infrastructure, Frugal AI promotes the use of open-source technologies, optimised computing resources and locally relevant AI solutions that can be deployed and managed in resource-constrained environments. The agreement specifically includes exploration of open-source models and frameworks such as Qwen, Gemma, LangGraph and Dify.

For Small Island Developing States such as Samoa, Frugal AI offers a practical pathway for adopting emerging technologies while reducing dependence on costly external systems and ensuring that AI innovation remains aligned with local priorities and capabilities.

The collaboration reflects NUS’s commitment to the safe, ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence in education, research and innovation.

By focusing on open-source and adaptable AI frameworks, the project provides opportunities for greater transparency in how AI systems are developed and used. It also supports institutional oversight, accountability and the development of governance practices that place human values, cultural context and public trust at the centre of AI adoption.

A key benefit of the Frugal AI approach is the ability to explore deployment models that strengthen data protection, privacy and digital sovereignty. By reducing reliance on external proprietary systems and enabling greater local control over AI infrastructure and data management, NUS will be better positioned to safeguard institutional information and ensure that sensitive data remains protected in accordance with national requirements and institutional policies.The collaboration is expected to generate significant benefits for NUS and the wider Samoan community, including:

• Building local expertise in emerging AI technologies and
• Developing practical AI solutions tailored to Samoa’s educational, research and development priorities.
• Strengthening national digital capability and innovation
• Promoting cost-effective and sustainable AI adoption suitable for small island
• Supporting data sovereignty and institutional control over digital
• Creating opportunities for regional and international collaboration through Commonwealth networks.
• Enhancing digital skills and AI literacy among university staff, researchers and partner

As part of the agreement, NUS will participate in technical development and testing, knowledge sharing, peer learning activities and training workshops, while maintaining technical documentation and producing reports that contribute to the global body of knowledge on Frugal AI implementation. The agreement remains in effect until 30 June 2027.

Commenting on the agreement, Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Malua Amosa, Vice Chancellor and President of NUS, said:

“This partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning represents an important step in strengthening Samoa’s digital future. Frugal AI offers a practical and responsible pathway for adopting artificial intelligence in ways that are affordable, sustainable and aligned with our national priorities. Through this collaboration, NUS aims to build local expertise, support innovation and ensure that the benefits of AI can be realised while upholding the principles of ethics, data protection and digital sovereignty.”

NUS also acknowledges the support of the Commonwealth of Learning in providing technical mentoring, knowledge exchange opportunities and training support throughout the project.

ENDS