The National University of Samoa has welcomed four newly appointed women professors including its Vice-Chancellor Professor Tuifuisa'a Dr. Patila Amosa to boost women in academia. 

The announcement by the N.U.S. administration was made on campus on Thursday in the presence of other women professors, who were on hand to witness the milestone. 

Following their elevation, the university now has three associate professors and eight professors. Tuifuisa'a is now a Professor of Environmental Science; Funemalafai Dr. Taema Imo-Seuoti, the Dean of the Faculty of Science is now a Professor of Environmental Science; Tuiloma Dr. Susana Tauaa is now a Professor of Geography; and Dr. Anita Latai-Niusulu is Associate Professor of Geography.

One of the senior academics at the university, Letuimanu'asina Professor Emma Kruse Vaai said the appointment of the four women professors not only recognises their professional and academic achievements but also the continuing development of the N.U.S. in its service to Samoa through the provision of an educated and qualified workforce.

"These professorial promotions highlight the exceptional scholastic and educational achievements and dedication of these outstanding achievements," she added. "Eligibility for professorial roles requires academic start to demonstrate excellence in research scholarship in teaching and education and in leadership and service to the community."

Prof. Tuifuisaa was a student of the first foundation class or U.P.Y. which started in early 1984 when the institution first began. Prof. Funemalafai was one of the first Bachelor of Science degree holders from the N.U.S. when it reached that level of programme delivery, while Prof. Tuiloma is one of the first two doctorate graduates of the N.U.S. when it reached that level of qualification, through the provision of PHD level in development studies under the Center of Samoan Studies. And Associate Prof. Latai represents the ongoing professional development of N.U.S. for the sustainability of younger staff members for academic achievement and excellence.