The Piula Theological College held a graduation ceremony on Saturday to honour the achievements of its latest crop of graduating students to successfully complete their studies.

The graduation ceremony was held at the Piula Theological College's Lupetaumafa Community Hall and attended by the graduates and their families.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer after the graduation ceremony, the Principal of the Piula Theological College, Reverend Dr. Mosese Mailo expressed his appreciation to all who supported the graduates during their journey.

"Seven had graduated with a diploma in theology and two graduated with Bachelor [of Divinity], and two graduated with Bachelor in Divinity with Honors," Rev. Dr. Mailo said.

The students who graduated from the Diploma in Theology  course are: Takashi Gafo, Petaia Polamalu, malo Tagatanuu, Tsubara Mauga, Pisia Iumaga, Peresentene Apisaloma and Amosa M. Tifi.

Reverend Selau Asiata also graduated with a Diploma in Theology.

While Eteuati Iosia and Petelo Lini Lauvao were awarded Bachelor's degrees in divinity, Apelu Faaniniva and Apineru Lafai Tavita graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity with honours.

Reverend Dr. Mailo explained that to successfully attain a diploma or Bachelor's degree students must also pass non-academic tests of their behaviour and spirituality.

He also highlighted that the graduates will only be bestowed the title reverend at the church's conference as they only received their certificates on Saturday besides those who graduated with a Bachelor's degree on Saturday.

Takashi Gafo was the dux who graduated with a diploma in theology on Saturday with Rev. Dr. Mailo saying Mr. Gafo deserved the award as it reflected the power of his perseverance in meeting the requirements of the college. 

 Rev. Dr. Mailo said the College's annual intake of students varies. 

"There are times that it increases and there are times that it decreases," he said.

But he also revealed that the college's intake for next year has increased, though the 2019 measles outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact their operations as no overseas students have enrolled.

Rev. Dr. Mailo hopes that the impact of the pandemic on the college will gradually subside, however, he emphasised no one knows God's plan for the future. 

"We are thankful for the support of the parents, families and the church especially the country," he said.