Letuimanuasina Dr Emma K. Vaai

By Renate Rivers

The National University of Samoa’s annual Open Day kicked off this morning with the theme “Plan Your Future�?, a message not lost on the numerous groups of secondary school students in attendance as they face looming graduations and decisions regarding future careers.

Registrar Luagalau Foisagaasina Eteuati Shon welcomed prospective students by inviting them to make the most of the activities and information.

 “This day is for you, especially you students still in high school to have a look at what is available.  We have invited different institutions, organisations, government departments to join us here in providing information for you so you know what is available for you in the job market.�?

Since its establishment in 1984, the National University has been tasked with providing local access to quality university education, and has grown from 45 students (in the first ever University Preparatory Year class in 1984) to a roll of over 3000 students this semester.

Acting Vice Chancellor Letuimanuasina Dr. Emma Kruse Vaai delivered the opening address and honed in on the importance of the theme.

“For all you future students, you must plan your future and plan it now.    
“This is your university and we are here to serve you.  We want to be part of your plans and we welcome anyone who is interested in higher learning.�?

For the future leaders of tomorrow, Letuimanuasina believes education to be the key to a well-rounded society and stable economy.

“Education provides options, and this is not limited to school-leavers, I am also referring to those currently in the workforce.  There are always opportunities to expand your knowledge base, which can mean an improvement in your job situation or an increase in your salary or wage.

“A well-educated person will contribute much more to their family, community and country.�?

Dr Kruse-Vaai said the University’s plans and strategies closely align with the Government’s Strategy for the Development of Samoa (SDS), a move she sees as necessary for maintaining relevancy and accurately reflecting what the country needs, especially in terms of Human Resources.

“We see the needs of the country and we try to remain relevant to those needs.  There is no use churning out groups of graduates every year if they are qualified in areas that are already saturated, or they cannot find work.

“We are always looking to adapt and provide courses that reflect the reality of everyday life in Samoa.  From courses on running a small business, to nursing, to horticulture where you are shown how to cultivate plants and establish a small enterprise to support your family – we offer many courses for individual development.  We have scholarships available through the Government for school-leavers and offer a lot for the personal development and improvement of our community.

“In saying that, there are some courses we are unable to offer due to the high cost involved – in terms of infrastructure and teach staff – like Medicine.  At this stage we cannot offer this, but next year we will be offering a Bachelor of Health Science, so that’s an exciting new step for us in expanding our services and programmes for our people.�?

University Registrar Luagalau encouraged those in attendance to ask as many questions as possible.
“Gather as much information as you can, and ask the questions you want to ask.  Do not be shy, because this is your future.�?

Courses available through NUS vary and can be studied through the faculties of Arts, Business and Entrepreneurship, Education, Nursing and Health Science, Science, Business and General Studies, Engineering, Maritime Training as well as the Centre for Samoan Studies, CISCO Networking Academy and the Oloamanu Centre.

The Open Day committee invited members of the general public and students to take part in a guided tour around the campus, viewing facilities and visiting faculties in their day-to-day mode of operations.

For more information regarding study options, please visit or call (685) 21428.

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