07 April 2019, Apia Samoa. Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MCIL) Pulotu Lyndon Chu Ling recieved his Masters of Development Studies from the National University of Samoa, graduating with his second eldest son, Francis, who received his Bachelor of Commerce on the same day.
Responding to questions from Samoa Global News Pulotu says he believes continuing education is key to Samoa’s development because our strength and competitive advantage as a nation, is our people.
“I strongly support Samoa’s vision as provided in the SDS for “An improved quality of life for all”;
“Samoa is a vulnerable economy with very limited natural resources, but the strength of our country is our people,” said Pulotu.
“We now compete within a fast-moving international development environment, so contuning education is an important tool that needs to be encouraged and strengthened;
“Our people need to keep up with new trends in each industry and align skills in their chosen field to match the current needs of the various development sectors in Samoa,” he added.
Speaking about his studies, Pulotu who also serves as Stake President of the Upolu Malie Stake for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints said he enjoyed the challenge.
“There was always strong support from my wife and children;
“I found that the best time for my readings and studies, was when everybody was asleep;
“Stuyding is a part time hobby, the early morning readings and a few sleepless nights working on assessments before due dates was an enjoyable challenge,” he said.
The CEO has led the way and built a culture of continuing education within MCIL as evident by the 8 other staff members from the Ministry who graduated from the National University of Samoa on the same day.
“I acknowledge the efforts of my MCIL team in pursuing this vision. Many of us from MCIL graduated today. My second son also graduated today with a BCom;
“I am so proud of them and trust they will continue with their studies.”
NUS 2019 MCIL GRADUATES:
Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies;
1. Fepuleai Roger Toleafoa
2. Sa’u Taupisioletoga Faamau
3. Leuluaialii Ioane Faalogo
4. Tanuvasa Faamanatu Solomona
5. Andrew Sheck
6. Joyce Fainuulelei (BCom)
7. Fred Afereti (BSc IT)
8. Ma’a Terry Manu (BSc IT)
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