The academic journey for hundreds of students who took Technical and Vocational Education and Training (T.V.E.T.) programmes at the National University of Samoa ended on a high on Wednesday. 

The ceremony at the NUS Gymnasium culminated the school work for this academic year marking the end of another chapter for most who claimed certificates and diplomas.

Scores of family and friends from Samoa and abroad congregated at the N.U.S. compound for the occasion. 

The graduation ceremony began with a special service followed by the keynote address delivered by Samoa's first female Marine Captain, Ioana Paulo Avefua from Puleia in Savai'i. 

Cap. Avefua said she was honoured to have been chosen as the guest speaker at this year's graduation and congratulated the graduates for their achievements. 

She encouraged them to keep pursuing their goals in life and that the sky was the limit. 

She was mindful that graduating is an important milestone in life as they worked really hard throughout the year in the different respective fields of studies. 

She urged them to cherish the memories and reflect on their journey with thankful hearts. 

She also encouraged them to celebrate their achievements with their loved ones who have been there for them.

A proud mother from Saipipi, Savai'i said she was proud that her son has completed his studies. 

Ituau Peleti Velio said every parent wants to see their children succeed in life. 

Her son, Tauinaola Junior Velio was a maritime student and is now a sailor waiting for an opportunity to work overseas.

"Today, I am very thankful and happy," Mrs. Velio said. 

"There are no other words to describe how I feel as a mother other than thank you. We give the glory back to God for his guidance and protection. His grace has brought us this far and we know he made this day possible for us.

"It's always a challenge for us in the big island when our children finish college as they leave our homes and move to Apia for school. 

"But as much as we want them to stay with us in Savai'i, we are aware that they need to be in Upolu for school."

The graduates on Wednesday completed and received certificates and diplomas from different programmes including, Preliminary Certificate in TVET, Preliminary Certificate IV in Nursing, Samoa Certificate II Automotive, Samoa Certificate II Construction and Joinery, Samoa Certificate II Electrical Engineering, Samoa Certificate II Fitting and Machining, Samoa Certificate II Plumbing, Samoa Certificate II Refrigeration and Airconditioning, Samoa Certificate II Welding, Diploma in Radio & Electronics, Diploma in Media and Journalism, NUS Certificate II in Tourism and Hospitality (Cookery), NUS Certificate II in Tourism and Hospitality (Tour Guiding), NUS Certificate II in Tourism and Hospitality (Front Office), NUS Certificate II in Tourism and Hospitality (Food and Beverage).

NUS Diploma V in Business, NUS Diploma V in Office Management, NUS Diploma V in Tourism, NUS Certificate IV in Computer Operating, NUS Certificate IV in Tropical Agriculture, Certificate II in Maritime Training (Marine Engineering), Certificate II in Maritime Training (Nautical), Certificate in Qualified Fishing Deckhand, Certificate III Able Seafarer (Deck), Certificate II Able Seafarer (Engine), Certificate IV Master (Class 5).