More than 800 students celebrated an important milestone at the National University of Samoa (NUS) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Graduation Ceremony,  on Wednesday.

 Fui Tupa'i Simanu, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure of Samoa, in his address, highlighted the important role of TVET in national development.

“Your knowledge is important, but your attitude is more important,” he said.

He reminded them that earning a certificate does not give them free rein, emphasising that there will always be someone who owns or manages the company they work for.

He acknowledged that graduates may find their work different from what they learned but stressed that a job is a job. He encouraged patience, noting that reaching higher levels takes time. He urged graduates to “listen, look, and observe,” share their knowledge, work as a team, maintain good workplace relationships, and uphold innovation, professionalism, and ethical practice.

Ahead of the ceremony, a Special Awards Ceremony on Tuesday recognising 25 outstanding students who ranked at the top of their TVET cohorts for the 2025 academic year, celebrating academic excellence alongside the broader graduation achievements.