The National University of Samoa (N.U.S.) will host a virtual graduation for the Foundation and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (T.V.E.T.) students this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The N.U.S. President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Alec Ekeroma, in response to questions from the Samoa Observer said the decision to host a virtual graduation is a safety precaution given the Government-declared state of emergency (S.O.E.) that is still in effect.

Asked what is being done as part of the graduating students’ preparations, he said their photos have been taken and the university administration now awaits their examinations and the results that will follow.

"Lecturers assisted them as best they can with their studies so it is now up to them to pass their exams," he said.

Like in previous graduations that were streamed online, the N.U.S. will broadcast the ceremony on local television as well as its Facebook page.

Professor Ekeroma emphasised that not all students will be eligible to graduate, especially those starting their studies in the second semester.

"Please note due to drop out or failure to complete all the courses or some having started their studies in semester two – not all the students listed below may be eligible to graduate," he said.

As an institution of learning, the mission of the N.U.S. is to produce quality graduates to meet the nation’s human resource needs, added Professor Ekeroma.

"Graduations are always a moment of pride for the graduates and their family and friends and the university is pleased to have played a role in their educational journey and is proud to see them complete their programmes," he added.

"However with the COVID-19 safety is paramount hence the virtual graduations. Uploading on Facebook will allow families and friends from here and far to witness their academic achievement and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours."

Currently, the N.U.S. has 564 students enrolled in its Foundation program with 456 in the T.V.E.T. in this academic year.