Single mother graduates with broadened horizons

By Adel Fruean 15 October 2021, 6:00PM

A single mother of two, who graduated with a Certificate III in Education Support from the Australia Pacific Training Coalition, has credited God and family for her success.

Otila Siaki Taulealea is one of 71 people who graduated from the A.P.T.C. in Samoa on Thursday. The ceremony was graduation ceremony was held at the National University of Samoa’s gymnasium with her family also in attendance.


The mother of two who is a 27-year-old is from the villages of Falevao, Letogo, and Leusoalii took six months to complete her certificate.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer after the graduation, Ms Taulealea said, “I give thanks and glory back to our heavenly Father for helping me throughout my academic journey.”

“I did not think I would hold a qualification from Australia but the advantage of this opportunity is that it is free and that we get allowance.

“I am currently working as a teacher at Leififi College for a child with a hearing disability.” 

Ms Taulealea was overwhelmed with happiness after completing her studies and said she graduated with qualifications for pre-school teaching. 

“I also taught at the Peace Chapel Pre-school where I then taught at SENESE for students with disabilities," she told this newspaper. 

“The qualifications or skills and knowledge I have gained will better equip me to carry out my job.”

She thanked her parents for always encouraging her when she felt like giving up.

“I also want to thank my parents for helping take care of my children while I am busy with studies and also my brothers and their wives but also my families overall.

“I want to acknowledge my teacher Malam, she’s the best teacher ever that has taught me because she never leaves any student behind while others have improved not only that, she has advised about certain things.

“And not forgetting our church minister and his wife for their prayers because they always remember us in their prayers.”

 Ms. Taulealea also thanked her employer for giving her time to undergo studies which she emphasised was of international standard.

“And now that it is finished, I have returned to work," she said. 

"But another reason why I wanted to take up studying for A.P.T.C. is because the Australian vocational qualification or certificate is recognised internationally in case I find work overseas in the future.

“But overall the significance of this qualification is to help me with a job to look after my children.” 

By Adel Fruean 15 October 2021, 6:00PM
Samoa Observer

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