27/03/2026
Church Service (Faigalotu) for the Samoan Students at FNU and USP – Friday 13 March 2026
Each year after the new first year and continuing Samoan students have settled into Suva, Fiji within their respective Universities, the Samoa High Commission host an evening church service (faigalotu) to spiritually bless the student’s academic journey throughout the year. The church service was held at U8 Lecture Theatre at the University of the South Pacific on Friday 13 March 2026 at 6.30pm.
The program commenced with the Deputy High Commissioner Ms Belinda Filo-Tafunai as MC officially welcoming all the Samoan students (both private and sponsored) from the Fiji National University (FNU) and the University of the South Pacific (USP) on behalf of the Samoa High Commissioner and conveyed sincere appreciation to all students present for graciously accepting the invitation to come together for our church service program for 2026. Moreover, acknowledged the presence of Rev. Vavatau Taufao and his wife Faletua Roina Vavatau at the service program.
Rev. Vavatau Taufao delivered the church service highlighting the key spiritual messages linked to the academic performances of the students, which was followed by the beautiful singing by the students who form the choir for the Samoa Congregational Christian Church in Suva, Fiji. Introductions were then made by the new students both at the Fiji National University (FNU) and the University of the South Pacific (USP) followed by the continuing students.
The Samoa High Commission through the Deputy High Commissioner Ms Belinda Filo-Tafunai used the opportunity to provide a brief update and key reminders to all the Samoan students on matters which they needed to be aware of and adhere to whilst studying in Suva, Fiji emphasizing that the Samoa High Commission regards each individual as an adult and not solely as a student. Since everyone has successfully made it to University, at tertiary level, students were encouraged to use the opportunity wisely, to work hard to achieve and maintain great results, to ensure each student maintains their scholarships, and not be distracted by external influence. Students who are privately funded were also reminded of the tremendous support from parents and families who desire only the best for their child's future.
The High Commissioner of Samoa to Fiji, His Excellency Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia during his brief remarks shared his experience as a former alumni of USP and as a proud father. He reminded the students of their privileges in having the office of the Samoa High Commission in Suva, Fiji that has oversight of students welfare, security and provides assistance where required considering students are away from their families in Samoa. High Commissioner further reiterated that each student must keep in mind all the advisory messages relayed during the gathering as the whole intention is to encourage everyone to strive for the best, graduate in time and return home to their proud families and serve in Samoa in whatever capacity they solely desire.
The service ended with Rev. Vavatau Taufao delivering a concluding prayer then followed by light dinner organised by the Samoa High Commission.
