Graduate dedicates success to late mum, community
Iosefa Niko Lefaoseu who graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology on Thursday dedicated his success to his late mother who passed away while he was in the process of writing his thesis.
Mr Lefaosea, a Samoan Methodist Church minister graduated from the Pacific Theological College said it was a proud moment for him.
He shared his happiness with his family members who were present at the event.
“My biggest inspiration was the way my community contributed towards my studies. It was not just an individual task, but although it was my sole responsibility, I would say it was a multidimensional achievement. “I would like to thank everybody that contributed, supported and prayed for me especially my family,” he said. When he was first appointed by his church to pursue his studies, Mr Lefaosea said he did not take it seriously then. “When the church appoints you to go somewhere, you have to go,” he said.
“I had no intention to do this, but it was with all the help of God and his plans for me. From then on, I took it seriously and enjoyed my studies.”
Mr Lefaoseu said his area of study was on the development of the faculty for theological school and he plans to stay on.
The new graduate who has daughters hopes that they will follow his footsteps, however, he will always support their career choices.
Caroline Ratucadra