One hundred and nine Government of Samoa officials graduated as part of The University of the South Pacific (USP), Samoa Campus graduation ceremony at the Samoa Football Apia Complex on Friday, 29 May. The achievement also marks Australia’s continued support of strengthening the capability of Samoa’s public service.
The USP Chancellor, His Majesty King Tupou VI of the Kingdom of Tonga, was in attendance to confer degrees, diplomas, and certificates on the graduates.
The Australian Government proudly supported the 109 officials through the Tautai Governance for Economic Growth Program, which aims to build the capacity of the Samoan Government and strengthen public sector performance.
Through the Tautai Program, Australia committed over SAT$400,000 to this cohort, strengthening skills, leadership, and government systems to deliver improved services for all Samoans.
The Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Will Robinson, congratulated the graduates.
“Australia congratulates all the graduates for their commitment and dedication. We are proud of our partnerships with Samoa’s Public Service Commission, Ministry of Finance and other public service agencies, and commend their leaders on their backing for professional development. We are confident these courses will provide valuable skills to strengthen government capability and contribute to effective and accountable service delivery for the people of Samoa.”
USP Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council and the Interim Management Group, Right Honourable Siosiua Tuitalukua Tupou Utoikamanu shared similar sentiments.
“USP was founded on a shared vision among Pacific nations to use education as a catalyst for development and progress. These graduates are a testament to the Government of Samoa’s commitment to investing in its people and strengthening the capabilities of its public service to meet the country’s evolving needs,” he said.
“We are proud to work alongside the Governments of Samoa and Australia in delivering programmes that respond directly to national workforce priorities. This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when countries, development partners and regional institutions work together towards a common goal.”
“By equipping public servants with relevant knowledge and skills, we are supporting stronger institutions, more effective public service delivery and sustainable national development outcomes. This reflects USP’s commitment to serving the aspirations and priorities of our member countries and the communities they represent.”
The graduating cohort includes:
• 18 graduates with a Certificate IV in Procurement and Supply
• 28 graduates with a Diploma in Procurement and Supply
• 29 graduates with a Certificate IV in Human Resource Management
• 29 graduates with a Professional Diploma in Public Sector Management
These programmes provide the public servants with important skills in procurement, supply chain management, and human resource management. These are key areas that support efficient, transparent, and effective government operations.
The graduation highlights the shared commitment between the Government of Samoa, USP, and development partners to investing in locally led development as the foundation for sustainable economic growth and good governance.
Australia remains a committed partner in supporting Samoa to build a capable and responsive public service.
This joint press release was issued by TAUTAI – Governance for Economic Growth and The University of the South Pacific, with media enquiries directed to Kevin Hadfield and Charlene Lanyon.
