Prime Minister of Samoa Fiame Naomi Mata’afa will be conferred with an Honorary Doctorate during the National University of Samoa graduation this Thursday.

Fiame became Samoa's first female head of government, breaking a long-standing tradition of HRPP leadership. Formerly a member of HRPP until 2020, Fiame carved her path as a pioneering figure in Samoan politics.

The N.U.S in a statement said she has been a dedicated member of Parliament since 1985, representing the Constituency of Lotofaga, and she is also the longest-serving female member of the Samoan Parliament to date.

In addition to her political career, Fiame has made significant contributions to education, women’s leadership, and community development. 

She has held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Education, Minister of Women, Minister of Justice, and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. 

She has also served as Samoa’s first female Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of the Human Rights Protection Party.

As Pro-Chancellor of the National University of Samoa from 1991 to 2006, Fiame oversaw important initiatives, such as the merger between the School of Nursing and the Faculty of Nursing, as well as the integration of the Western Samoa Teachers College into the NUS Faculty of Education. 

She also played a key role in the merger between the National University of Samoa and the Samoa Polytechnic in 2006.

For her outstanding contributions to education, women’s leadership, and community development, the University expressed sincere pride to confer upon FIame the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws. 

This prestigious recognition honours her dedication and leadership in empowering women and advancing education in Samoa.

The ceremony will take place during the Graduation Ceremony on Thursday 28 March 2024, at the N.U.S campus in Le Papaigalagala.