The Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) hall in Sogi was filled with smiles, hugs, and tears of joy on Friday as students from the University of the South Pacific, Samoa Campus celebrated their graduation. 

The hall was packed with special guests, family, and friends of those receiving Master’s Degrees, Post-graduate diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees, Diplomas, Certificates in T.V.E.T. subjects, and Foundation Certificates.

The ceremony commenced with a brief prayer and hymns performed by the Piula Theological College. Graduates were reminded that the completion of their current studies marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. 

They were encouraged to use their newly acquired knowledge and skills to benefit their families and communities.

Tusiata L. Salu, who earned a Master of Agriculture, addressed her fellow graduates, expressing gratitude to the university, families, and friends for their support throughout their academic journey. 

She recounted leaving her family in Savai'i in 2015 to pursue her studies and reflected on the challenges she faced along the way. 

Salu acknowledged the invaluable support from her family, friends, and mentors, describing her time at USP as "memorable." 

She emphasised perseverance, noting that despite the difficulties, the hard work would eventually pay off. 

“The journey is never easy, but I believe that one day, everything will make sense, and the outcome of all the hard work will be worth it,” she said. She also encouraged students not to be discouraged by failure, as it is a part of the learning process.

Another joyful graduate, Kealamailani Mara Apaula-Sopu from the Kingdom of Tonga, who earned a Foundation Certificate in Art, shared her inspiration from the ceremony. 

At 18 years old, she felt proud to be among those receiving advanced degrees and leading the regional learning institution. Ms. Apaula-Sopu expressed her happiness at having her mother and aunt travel from Tonga to attend her graduation. 

Looking forward to the next phase of her academic journey, she aspires to become a lawyer specialising in criminology, hoping to make her parents and family in Tonga proud.