As Temukisa Apelu rose to collect a Bachelor's degree in nursing last week, she was also fulfilling a life dream.

A mother-of-three expecting a baby, Ms Apelu, a registered nurse, said that her journey to further education began after she first received her Certificate in Science in 2010. 

“Eleven years later a Bachelor of Arts and it is something to be proud [of]," she told the Samoa Observer in an interview. 

"Nursing is a profession, and a calling to serve our people."

The daughter of Apelu ma Lagi from Tanugamanono Ms Temukisa is a married to Peter Vaeluaga better known as D.J. Peter. 

“Being a nurse is not just a job, it is a service. One’s service must come from the heart, given that it is the lives of people that we are dealing with. 

“It was not an easy job of being a mother and also pursuing studies but it takes courage, motivation and support.” 

She then called on mothers to pursue their own dreams.

“Age is just a number and it is never too late to go after your dream job," she said.

"I want to encourage other mothers out there to pursue their dreams, it is never too late.” 

She commended her supportive husband for always facing the circumstances of the homefront while she focuses on studies. 

“I want to thank my husband Peter for always being there and supporting our family, tending to the kids while I focus on my studies. It’s not easy but because I am passionate about my calling as a nurse, nothing will stand in my way,” said Ms Apelu. 

She is currently working at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole hospital in Moto’otua. 

Last December, 50 registered nurses with a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing joined the Ministry of Health (M.O.H.) in a major boost to the knowledge capacity within the health sector.

The M.O.H. last December hosted a ceremony and welcomed the registered nurses following the completion of the National University of Samoa’s Bachelor of Nursing programme.

The ceremony at the time was attended by the Minister of Health, Faimalotoa Kika Stowers, M.O.H. Director General, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri, Samoa Nurses Association President, Solialofi Papali’i, and family and friends of the graduates.

Faimalotoa acknowledged the support of the graduating nurses’ parents and families for supporting their sons and daughter’s professional career. 

She also commended the nurses’ hard work, especially serving the people of Samoa through the provision of health services.