Samoan scholar Leiataualesa Eric U.J. Tuia, from Vaivase Uta, Utualii, Vaiee and Manono, completed a double Master’s in Global Health and Infectious Disease Intelligence, graduating with excellence in both fields from the University of New South Wales on 5 December. 

Leiataualesa was the recipient of the Department of Foreign Trades and Affairs(DFAT) Australia scholarship program for the 2023 Cohort.

He is the son of proud parents, Leuluaialii Malaefilifili Uilisone and Yvonne Tuia from Vaivase Uta.

Leiataualesa currently serves in the Ministry of Health, and his postgraduate achievements are expected to strengthen Samoa’s public health sector. His advanced training will help improve infectious disease surveillance, support early detection of health threats and contribute to data-driven decisions and evidence-based interventions. His expertise will also support national efforts in emergency preparedness, outbreak response and overall health security.

He noted that one of the most challenging aspects of studying abroad was being away from his family. While the distance was difficult, it became a reminder of purpose and responsibility. 

Leaving home required sacrifice, yet it built resilience, independence and the courage to grow beyond familiar surroundings. Thoughts of family and community in Samoa motivated him, helping him face each challenge with determination. The academic workload was demanding, especially within a shortened timeframe. Even with these emotional challenges, he entered the program with a solid academic foundation.

He mentioned that before beginning the master’s journey, there was already an established background in public health and laboratory science, strengthened by two postgraduate diplomas in Clinical and Medical Microbiology. These were completed through the Pacific Pathology Training Centre in New Zealand, with additional specialist training from the Pacific Regional Infectious Disease Association in Australia. 

His master’s program, designed for two years, was completed in one year and seven months. He also interned with The George Institute for Global Health, contributing to research on healthcare worker resilience and support in low-resource settings. With these achievements behind him, he is focused on what comes next.