A total of 497 students graduated from the National University of Samoa on Wednesday, celebrating academic achievement across a range of disciplines, with female graduates significantly outnumbering males.

Of the 497 graduates, 353 were females, and 144 were males. University officials noted the continued strong participation of women in higher education programmes across faculties.

The largest graduating cohort came from the Bachelor of Commerce programme, with 87 students completing the qualification. This was followed by the Bachelor of Nursing with 51 graduates, the Postgraduate Certificate in Executive Leadership with 48 graduates, the Bachelor of Education–Primary with 45 graduates, and the Bachelor of Science with 37 graduates.

The remaining graduates completed studies across other academic programmes, reflecting the institution’s broad academic offering and growing demand for professional qualifications in key sectors such as education, health, business, and science.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Malua Amosa said graduation represents a significant milestone in university life, bringing together staff, families, and friends to celebrate the success of graduands.

“Graduation is an important part of university life where staff, family and friends celebrate the success of graduands. On behalf of the University, I congratulate all our graduands and look forward to hearing about your successes,” she said.

University officials congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to apply their knowledge and skills in their communities and workplaces. They said the graduating class reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to developing a skilled workforce capable of contributing to national development and service delivery across sectors.