One hundred and nine Government of Samoa officials graduated during The University of the South Pacific (USP) Samoa Campus graduation ceremony held at the Samoa Football Apia Complex on Friday, 29 May. The achievement also highlights Australia’s ongoing support in strengthening the capability of Samoa’s public service.
USP Chancellor, King Tupou VI, attended the ceremony and conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates on the graduates.
The Australian Government supported the 109 officials through the Tautai Governance for Economic Growth Program, which aims to build the capacity of the Samoan Government and improve public sector performance. Through the programme, Australia invested more than SAT$400,000 in this cohort, helping to strengthen skills, leadership and government systems to improve service delivery for all Samoans.
Australian High Commissioner, Will Robinson, congratulated the graduates on their achievement.
“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,” he said.
USP Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council and the Interim Management Group, Siosiua Tuitalukua Tupou Utoikamanu, echoed those sentiments, describing the graduates as a reflection of the Government of Samoa’s commitment to investing in its people and strengthening the public service.
“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.
He added that USP was proud to work alongside the Governments of Samoa and Australia in delivering programmes that directly address 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 included 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, and 29 graduates with a Professional Diploma in Public Sector Management.
These programmes provide public servants with essential skills in procurement, supply chain management and human resource management—key areas that support efficient, transparent and effective government operations.
The graduation ceremony highlighted the shared commitment of the Government of Samoa, USP and development partners to investing in locally led development as a foundation for sustainable economic growth and good governance.
Australia remains committed to supporting Samoa in building a capable, responsive and effective public service.
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