A trailblazing University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka alumnus who played crucial roles in the development of Samoa's healthcare, as well as the founding of the National University of Samoa, has been honoured in Apia last night.
The Honourable Tapusātele Le Māmea Tuiletufuga Lemalu Su'a Leatuavao, Dr Ropati Mualia became New Zealand's first Samoan to earn a Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), graduating from Otago in 1970.
He went on to have a distinguished career and a lifetime of service across education, governance and community leadership.
A University of Otago delegation, led by Vice-Chancellor Hon Grant Robertson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) Professor Jessica Palmer and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Pacific) Professor Dianne Sika-Paotonu, presented Le Māmea with a prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award at an event last night.
Le Māmea says he was deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to the University of Otago to learn of the recognition.
"This award holds special significance, not only in reflecting on my academic beginnings at Otago in 1970, but also in my enduring connection to the University and to the Pacific community."
Mr Roberston says the Distinguished Alumni Award formally recognises alumni who have made exceptional and sustained contributions to their field and to society.
He says Le Māmea's life's work is testament to visionary leadership, integrity, and a profound commitment to public service, which makes him a most deserving recipient.
"This award celebrates Le Māmea's long and impressive list of accomplishments, and also the values that underpin them – service, humility, perseverance and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education," Mr Roberston says.
"Le Māmea's achievements have laid the foundation for decades of impact across Samoa and the Pacific."
Mr Robertson says that as well as a lifetime of exemplary service to his home nation of Samoa, Le Māmea has remained one of the University of Otago's most committed advocates.
Six of Le Māmea's seven children are Otago graduates, followed by four of his grandchildren, while a further four grandchildren are current Otago students.
"This reflects a family legacy of academic excellence and a passionate loyalty to Otago," Mr Roberston says.
Otago Tula Malae - Head of Pacific Community Engagement Tofilau Nina Kirifi-Alai, who was instrumental in instigating and organising this award, also paid tribute to Le Māmea.
"As Patron of La o Samoa – Otago's Samoa Alumni Chapter – Le Māmea has fostered strong and sustained alumni engagement, frequently hosting University leaders and delegations to Samoa with hospitality and grace," she says.
"Through this service, and through the academic journeys of his children and grandchildren, Le Māmea's legacy continues to inspire new generations of Samoan and Pacific scholars."
