More than 400 students graduated with certificates, diplomas, and degrees from the National University of Samoa (N.U.S.) on Thursday. 

More than a thousand people gathered at the N.U.S. Gymnasium to witness the graduation of the university’s technical, vocational and training programmme students.

The N.U.S. Chancellor, who is also the Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo Her Highness Faamausili Leinafo Tuimalealiifano attended the event. 

Others in attendance included the N.U.S. Vice-Chancellor, Aiono Professor Alec Ekeroma, and many N.U.S. lecturers.

Guests included the Minister of Education Sports and Culture, Seuula Ioane Tuaau. 

The guest speaker was the Samoa Qualifications Authority’s (S.Q.A.) Chief Executive Officer, Leali'ifano Easter Manila–Silipa. 

She said Samoa only has one university and many dream of being educated here.

“To all the graduates, you will all receive certificates that have been accredited by the Authority,” she said.  

Leali’ifano said that one of the Government’s priorities is the development of technical education and ensuring many students graduate and especially females and people with a disability:

“It is our prayer that we continue to work in accrediting all programs taught in the university.”

She said that these certificates will enable the graduates to attain jobs and have their qualifications recognised overseas.

“For all our graduates, you have completed another journey successfully; let us glorify the Lord for He owns the wisdom, knowledge, talent and qualifications which have enabled you to achieve this academic journey," she said. 

“Remember this is not the end of your journey but it is a door to other employment opportunities in the future.”

The top Certificate II student in Maritime Training (marine engineering) was George Siaosi. He was awarded with the Samoa Shipping Services Trophy and the Samoa Seafarers and Maritime Association Trophy. 

The 19-year-old is the son of Pokati and Tailelei Siaosi from the village of Maagiagi. 

Mr. Siaosi told the Samoa Observer that it never crossed his mind that he would emerge as the top student from his one-year course. 

“I would like to thank God for blessing us with this special day on which we are able to celebrate this achievement,” he said.

“I thank God for the wisdom and knowledge He has blessed me with but [I also cannot forget] the support from my family.

“I want to inspire and teach others with the knowledge and expertise that I have gained.”

Mr. Siaosi said some of the challenges he faced was not having enough time to study.

He dedicated his achievement to his parents and thanked them along with family and friends for supporting him throughout his academic journey.

Other winners included: Junetai Piula who was the top Certificate of Attainment: Trade and Health Preparatory Year student; Top Certificate II in Sustainable Energy student - Gwen Samau; Top Samoa Certificate II in Automotive Engineering student - Daniel Peter Andersen; Top Samoa Certificate II Construction student - Farani Ropati; Top Samoa Certificate II Electrical Student - Mervyn Teueli; Top Samoa Certificate II Fitting and Machining student - Asosilinivako Taatia; Top Samoa Certificate II Plumbing student - Gagauga Malele Amituanai.