Apia, Samoa – The National University of Samoa proudly celebrated the grand opening of the Ōfaga o Sa’ili’iliga – the National University of Samoa Research Museum last Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Niule’a Building, Le Papaigalagala Campus.
The ceremony was graced by the Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa, the Honourable Afioga Tuala Iosefa Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio. In his keynote address, he emphasized the importance of the museum as a space for education, community engagement, and the celebration of Samoan culture. He stated, “This museum should not only help us learn about our past, but it can also bring communities together to explore further, to learn more, and to educate future generations about the importance of cultural heritage in our society.”
The highlight of the opening was the launch of the inaugural exhibition titled “Atalilo: Motifs in Samoan Material Culture.” This exhibition showcases an impressive collection of Samoan motifs, expressing deep cultural significance across various art forms and reflecting the rich traditions of Samoa.
Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, NUS Vice-Chancellor of Samoa, stated, “The Ōfaga o Sa’ili’iliga is the result of a partnership formed in 2020 between the National University of Samoa and the Übersee-Museum Bremen. The collaborative effort has enabled the exchange of knowledge, artifacts, and expertise, culminating in the creation of a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Samoan history and culture.”
Professor Wiebke Ahrndt, Director of the Übersee-Museum Bremen, also spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the collaborative aspects of the project. She stated, “The exhibition sets a precedent of excellence for future productions and goals of the NUS Research Museum. We have seized the moment to create something that has, up to now, not existed in Samoa: A Research Museum.”
The creation of the museum is seen as evidence of the dedication and commitment to cultural preservation within the Samoan community. It provides a vital space for students, researchers, and the public to explore and engage with the rich tapestry of Samoan material culture.
The Ōfaga o Sa’ili’iliga is now officially open to the public, inviting everyone to experience the stories, the art, and the heart of Samoa.
The National University of Samoa Research Museum
