The University of Samoa celebrated a milestone with the official launch of its Bachelor of Health Science programme on Monday.

In 2020, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Ministry of Health saw the need to expand Samoa's primary care and allied health workforce, prompting the creation of the Bachelor of Health Science curriculum.

This vision fully aligns with the objectives of the National University of Samoa, which prioritises education, employment, research, and innovation.

Vice Chancellor Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa thanked the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their funding and project expertise, as well as the Samoa Ministry of Health for their collaboration in developing a programme tailored to Samoa's health needs. 

The launch ceremony also included a speech by Acting New Zealand High Commissioner, Lavea’i Ioane, who commended the resilience and commitment of all partners and stakeholders involved in the project. 

She highlighted the challenges faced during the past three years, including the measles outbreak and the global pandemic, but commended everyone involved for completing the programme's design and signing the Grant Funding Agreement between Samoa and New Zealand in 2023.

The Bachelor of Health Science programme aims to strengthen Samoa's health workforce by equipping allied health professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. The first cohort of 17 students has already been enrolled for Semester 1, 2024, consisting of healthcare professionals currently employed in the health sector and students who have completed foundation or degree programs.

The NUS envisions the Bachelor of Health Science program becoming a beacon of excellence in healthcare education.

The university is looking forward to continuing working closely with its partners and stakeholders to further strengthen Samoa's health workforce and services.

The ceremony was held at Fale Samoa and attended by distinguished guests, including the New Zealandʻs Deputy Commissioner, Leader Laveai Ioane, Director General of Health, Aiono Dr. Alec Ekeroma and his colleagues, NUS Vice Chancellor Professor Tuifuisaa Patila Amosa and Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Peseta Desmond Lee Hang and other representatives of the diplomatic corps.