Walking on stage to collect his degree in front of hundreds of spectators is not unfamiliar to Taatia Fagalele, yet it suffices to inspire his students at the National University of Samoa.
Mr. Fagalele, a Lecturer in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage, teaches Samoan History and Society as well as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to Bachelor’s students.
For this young educator, challenges have never had the power to dissuade him from believing in his ability to achieve anything in life.
“Poor time management was my adversary, as it presented the biggest challenge I faced. Teaching consumed most of my time because, like every other teacher, I wanted my students to pass their courses.
As a result, I only had a few hours at night to study and complete all my assignments. Unfortunately, I also needed to rest to refresh my mind.
Throughout the day, I devoted all my time to assisting my students, and no one knew of my struggles.
It was never easy because I also had to focus on my studies to achieve what my heart desired.
Nevertheless, with God’s guidance and my family’s unceasing prayers, I graduated today with a Postgraduate Diploma in Samoan Studies. Now, I can only say, ‘FINALLY,'” said Fagalele.
The 26-year-old graduated alongside his former students. “My heart melted when I heard the names of those who were in my classes last year being called out during the presentation of qualifications. Moments like this really motivate me.”
Mr. Fagalele’s accomplishment has inspired many young people, especially his current students, demonstrating that everyone has the potential to achieve more in life regardless of the different paths they take.
He is the son of Fagalelea and Asenati from the village of Salailua in Savaii.
Taatia Fagalele attended Salailua Primary School and Palauli i Sisifo College before qualifying to enter the National University of Samoa.
He initially served as a Research Assistant in Archaeology from 2019 to 2022 before becoming a teacher at the university in 2023.
