Theresa Owen has been named the dux of Tesese Institute of Administrative Studies.

The 26-year-old from Vaipuna immediately dedicated her success to her grandparents, Faalogo and Fualaau Williams.

The top student was among 48 students who graduated during a ceremony at the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S.) Youth Hall yesterday. The ceremony was well attended by families, friends and invited guests.

Ms. Owen was also awarded the Maoai Crichton Trophy for topping Word Processing 3 and the Sarai Sapenapaenae Memorial Trophy for coming first in Software Applications.

 “We have come to the end of our journey, and it has ended with great success,” she said. 

“But it would not have been possible without the support and encouragement from our beloved parents and families and therefore, we thank God for their presence in our lives.

“But of course let us not forget to give back the glory and thanksgiving to the Lord for his never ending care and assistance.”

She also presented — on behalf of her graduating class — a cheque worth $7,000 to Emoni Tesese, the director of Tesese Institute of Administrative Studies. 

Other awardees include Sefulu Falevao, who received a trophy for being the top student in Certificate Level 2, Jennifer Kisila who got the trophy for top student in Certificate Level 3, and Masese Fuataileniu was awarded the trophy for top student in Certificate Level 4. 

C.E.O. of Samoa Qualification Authority, Letuimanu’asina Dr. Emma Kruse Vaai, congratulated the graduates on their success.

“I applaud the work done by the institute in providing for students to study towards certificates that can enable them for job opportunities.

“As stated before by the director of Tesese, the studies conducted by students are relevant in the work they are employed in.

“Congratulations graduates, your Tesese Institute has registered and your programmes are accredited and your qualifications have been recognized by Samoa Qualifications framework,” she said. 

Letuimanu’asina appealed to the graduates to take with them their school motto of “striving for excellence” in the quality of service they provide.