The University of the South Pacific (USP) Samoa Campus’ staff and students hosted a reception on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, to formally acknowledge and express gratitude to the Government and people of Samoa for their hospitality and support extended to the Vice-Chancellor and President during his term based in Samoa and to thank the VCP for his leadership and contribution to the Samoa Campus.
The event was attended by Samoa’s Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II, and his wife Masiofo Fa’amausili Leinafo, Minister of Education Honourable Seuula Ioane Tua’au, Opposition Leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, and the country’s Prime Minister Fiame Honourable Dr Naomi Mata’afa.
In his address, USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, expressed profound appreciation to the government and people of Samoa and their leaders for fostering an environment where regionalism thrives.
“I thank you, Prime Minister, for your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing tertiary education. You and your government have been steadfast in upholding due process and the paramount importance of good governance. This support has not only sustained me but has also welcomed the Vice-Chancellor to call Samoa home for the past two and a half years.”
Professor Ahluwalia also extended his gratitude to Campus Director Dr Fanaafi Aiono Le-Tagaloa and her dedicated team for their unwavering commitment and dedication.
Prime Minister Honourable Dr Fiame Naomi Mata’afa reiterated USP’s critical role in the Pacific region as a beacon of regionalism and a higher education institution that empowers Pacific people and communities.
“We must remember that we are one Pacific family, united in our diversity, strengthened by our differences, and committed to advancing knowledge and understanding across our region. Our strength lies in our unity, and our future depends on our ability to work together.”
The reception, held at the newly refurbished Fale Samoa at the Alafua Campus, was also attended by members of the Diplomatic Corp, senior government officials, members of community and business organisations, USP alumni, staff, and students.
