Graduation day was supposed to be the best day in one’s life, but it was the opposite for Katie Philomena Asafo, who graduated yesterday from the National University of Samoa with a Bachelor of Education in the Primary level.
“As a daughter, I did feel jealous as I remained in my seat during the graduation ceremony and saw other mothers rise to their feet, shouting and cheering for their daughters as they appeared on stage to receive their qualification.
“I wish my mother were present to do the same for me. However, it was just an imagination,” said Katie.
In an interview with Ms. Asafo, she told this media that her mother’s passing almost put an end to her academic journey.
“Mom was my role model, and her absence has affected my studies. Then I decided it would be best to quit, allowing time for me to take care of my father.
“Nevertheless, my dad really encouraged me to continue finding my way to success, and he told me that nothing should ever have the power to get in the way of me striving for the better.”
One major challenge for her was the lack of financial assistance, and then she applied for the government scholarship at the Ministry of Education and Culture in 2021 and was approved.
Katie, a teacher at Falefitu Primary School, immediately credited the amazing work that her parents have done which brought her to accomplishing her dream of becoming an educator.
She is the daughter of Fauono Sanele Asafo (father) and Tamaifuna Vo’a Suitafa Jane Asafo.
Moreover, the 33-year-old thanked her spiritual parents, her principal, and staff for their unwavering support towards her education.
Katie graduated from Leififi College in 2008.
Her mother died on 6th March last year, but on the 6th of March 2024, she was called by the MEC to teach at Falefitu Primary School.
“Never let anything discourage us. I take my hat off to my dad, especially my mom for the seed that was planted in my life when I was just a little girl. Now, I have seen its fruit.