There were emotional scenes of joy and excitement as parents, guardians and friends of the 2021 National University of Samoa graduating class received their certificates, diplomas and degrees following the completion of studies.

Hundreds of people gathered at the N.U.S. gymnasium on Friday to witness and celebrate the academic achievements of their loved ones following years of studies.

The ceremony was attended by the N.U.S. Chancellor; the Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II; Vice-Chancellor of the university Aiono Professor Alec Ekeroma; and the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa.

Also present was the Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio; Minister of Justice and Courts Administration, Matamua Vasati Pulufana; and Minister of Health, Valasi Tafito Selesele.

A total of 186 students graduated and of this total 39 received a Bachelors Degree in Education.

Among the graduates were the Minister of Education Sports and Culture, Seuula Ioane Tuaau and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour (M.C.I.L.) Pulotu Lyndon Chu Ling.

Prime Minister, Fiame delivered the keynote address saying that the journey’s end is as important as the journey itself.

“Yes, while it is true that piece of paper is important but your honest work is more important,"she said.

She told the graduates that they are their parents’ investment.

“They have taken care of you for many years, for you to get a degree and be eligible for a good job to help look after them and your families.”

One of the graduates, Moea’i Faafili from Savaii told the Samoa Observer that he is overwhelmed at the occasion and the fact that he has graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Education.

“I give back the glory to God for his guidance and made this journey a success.

“The significance of having this degree is that it improves the knowledge and skills needed in carrying out my work as a teacher.

“I have been a teacher for ten years and I think that my work as a teacher is important because teaching or educating our children is key for them to secure a better future.”

Seuula spoke on behalf of the graduates in acknowledging the contribution of everyone from families, teachers, Government and partners to their academic journey.

He also thanked God for guiding each and every one of them through a difficult road but they have reached their destination.