The University of Otago has strengthened its presence in the Pacific after a successful visit to Samoa where closer relations were fostered with the National University.
Otago, Samoa universities forge closer link
A visit to Samoa made by a delegation from the University of Otago last October has initiated an exchange with the National University of Samoa (NUS) where more opportunities for university staff and students alike have been fostered.
The University of Otago spent a week meeting and discussing upcoming projects and opportunities with the NUS vice chancellor’s committee, deans and heads of schools and faculties.
During the visit, the University of Otago offered a number of scholarships to NUS staff, granting many of them the chance to continue into postgraduate study.
One staff member is studying towards their masters in science with distinction, while the first of these staff members graduated in December.
NUS in turn offered the University of Otago a house on its campus, giving researchers, and former and current Otago students a place of their own.
Otago’s delegation also met with Samoa’s head of state, Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese and prime minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi; as well as the minister of education, sports and culture, To’omata Alapati Poese To’omata and minister of women affairs, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa.
Otago is set to return in 2008, when the Otago house will officially be opened. The university’s aim is to work with its former graduates, setting up programmes to help with finding jobs following graduation; as well as maintaining relationships with these students.
