In a remarkable journey of accomplishments, Taiao Dr. Matavai Tautunu, the first Samoan to publish a doctoral thesis in the Samoan language and receive a doctorate in culture, has achieved yet another milestone. Recently, he announced his appointment as a special researcher at the Research Center for Pacific Island Countries of Laiocheng University for a three-year term. This appointment commenced in January of this year and will conclude in December of 2026. Dr. Tautunu humbly acknowledged that his accomplishments were a result of guidance and blessings from God.
In addition to his new role, Dr. Tautunu serves as the Director for the Center for Samoan Studies at the National University of Samoa (N.U.S.), where he has dedicated many years as a lecturer. Throughout his career, he has authored numerous books and conducted extensive research. Notably, in 2021, he published his thesis, which delved into the changes in customary lands from 1845 to 2020, focusing on the villages of Amaile and Samusu in Aleipata. His research also explored the implications of the Land and Titles Registration Act of 2008 on customary lands. Dr. Tautunu aspires for his work to serve as valuable source material for future generations of Samoan researchers.
Dr. Tautunu emphasised the significance of publishing his thesis in the Samoan language. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Samoan culture and customs, urging future researchers to explore these topics in their native language. By conducting research in Samoan, he believes that the true essence of their culture and way of life can be faithfully represented, as many historical documents and research on Samoan culture are predominantly written in English. Dr. Tautunu’s groundbreaking achievement has also inspired other Samoan chiefs to pursue similar paths of cultural research.
As a Samoan Lecturer, Dr. Tautunu anticipates that the content of his research and thesis will resonate with many individuals, particularly among the Samoan community, as it addresses a crucial and sensitive issue pertaining to customary lands in Samoa. He recognises that land ownership is currently a highly sensitive matter and expects further research to be conducted in various districts and villages, similar to the changes observed in Aleipata.
Having published over 20 works, Dr. Tautunu harbours the aspiration of becoming an Associate Professor at his local institution, contingent on the number of books and publications he has contributed thus far. His roots trace back to the villages of Samusu, Ti’avea, Amaile, Saleaumua, Faleasi’u, and Safune.
