The Minister of Health Minister Valasi Tafito Selesele delivered a keynote address at the graduation ceremony of 15 new doctors.
Addressing the graduates and their families, the Minister acknowledged the support of parents and the efforts of the medical board in preparing the new doctors for their roles.
“Ua mua’i fa’atalofa atu ile susuga ile ta’ita’i o le sauniga, faafetai mo talosaga molia o lenei itula ma se ‘upu fa’alae’iau ua e fofogaina,” the Minister said, expressing gratitude for the occasion and the words of encouragement given.
The Minister highlighted the government’s investment in medical education, stating that healthcare services remain a priority.
“O le viiga e foi ile Atua, auā o fa’anaunauga nei a lo tatou malo, e ala ai foi ona fa’amatu’u mai tupe e fa’atupeina ai a outou a’oa’oga.”
Urging the new doctors to prioritise patient care, the Minister reminded them that their work is a calling, not just a profession. “Ia fa’amuamua o tatou tagata i la outou tautua, ae le o le tupe. A tatou galulue ma le fa’amaoni, ma faia ma le alofa, e mulia’i fa’amanuiaga tau tupe tou te maua.”
The speech concluded with a call for dedication and perseverance in the face of challenges.
“Ia galue ma le filigā, ma ia faia ma le alofa. O a faigata ma lu’itau o le a feagai ai ile fa’atinoga o le auaunaga, saili ile Atua.”
This cohort of 15 new doctors represents a notable addition to Samoa’s healthcare workforce, aiming to enhance the quality and accessibility of medical services across the country. Their entry into the medical field is a step toward addressing existing gaps and improving health outcomes for all Samoans.
