Proud families and friends gathered at the Congregation Chistian Church of Samoa, Maota o Tupulaga in Sogi on Friday to witness the conferring of their loved ones' Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates at the University of the South Pacific graduation.

The ceremony started with a powerful sermon by Reverend. Aisoli Iuli Tapa.

"You all have fought the good fight. I take my hat off to every single one of you. Nevertheless, we need to come together before God and say, 'Thank you," he said.

"Nothing is more important than expressing gratitude because it goes to show our appreciation to God for all that He has done through His mercy, kindness and love." 

The celebration of the graduating students' achievements was attended by the Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, guests and loved ones. 

Durig the graduation, special awards were presented to the top Animal Husbandry student, Fekihiaki He-Lotu Fifita from Tonga, and the top Samoan law student, Bella Michelene Tauaa from Samoa. 

Shouts of joy and tears of happiness were felt as parents congratulated their children. Children greeted their parents as they walked down from the stage with their qualifications, and of course the husbands and wives cheered for their graduating partners. 

Samoa Observer was able to interview a few graduates about their journey. 

"I am so happy; I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom to make it through. In 2001, I studied for my postgraduate. I spent the whole of last year for my Master of Education, so I am thankful especially to my family and the people who always back me up whenever I've ups and downs, but they were always there," Kaboiti Losa Alefaio Lauti, a 45-year-old Tuvaluan is a U.S.P. teacher in Tokelau. 

"It is never too late to reach the end of the race. Don't ever be scared of failure, take the risk and aim high, for the sky is the limit," Mrs. Lauti. 

She has two children, and it was challenging when she had to take care of the family while working as a fulltime teacher. 

Another graduate, Molilaauifogaa Jacinta Seanoa is a businesswoman who graduated with a Postgraduate Certificate in Business and Administrations said commitment involves work, financial constraints, and family. 

"There is so much going on, I work at Lava hotel, I have my own business, my husband and I also own a business, but with faith, I managed to keep going and focus on my academic journey, and I can't wait to graduate with my Masters next year," she said. 

According to Levaula Agassi Harry Rajendra Titimaea, he dedicated his achievement to his family.

"I credit my family's support and prayer. What I have been able to achieve is theirs as well. Because of that, I feel just tremendously grateful," he said.

"I spent about five and half years to graduate. I have witnessed my family struggle and sacrifice for me. That could be one challenge on the way especially my mom, she has been through a lot just to support my brother and me. I must say I am so grateful to them."

The 23-year-old man is the eldest of the two brothers and he graduated today with a Bachelor of Law from the University of the South Pacific.

In a graduand's address that was delivered by the holder of a Post Graduate Diploma in Commerce in Professional Accounting, Eirenei Amela Mafi Afoa, she encouraged the graduates to step out of their comfort zones.