Monash students immersed in Samoan culture at USP

By Dwayne Mahimkar/

Apia, SAMOA – 22 January 2026 – The University of the South Pacific Samoa Campus recently welcomed a large student delegation from Melbourne-based Monash University, marking the start of an immersive academic and cultural exchange programme in Samoa.

The visiting group made up of 82 students from a range of faculties and disciplines arrived alongside six staff members led by their in-country coordinator, Professor Gabriel Brand. Known collectively as ‘Block 4’, the delegation is undertaking a two-week programme focused on sustainability, environmental challenges and climate change in the Pacific.

USP staff and students extended a traditional Samoan welcome to the visitors through a formal Ava ceremony organised by the USP Samoan Students Association.

The ceremony reflected Samoan customs of hospitality and concluded with the Taupou performing the taualuga.

The ava ceremony was led by the Taupou and mentor Kylamarie Misi who also guided the cultural performances, leaving a strong impression on the visiting students experiencing Samoan traditions for the first time.

As part of the orientation programme, USP Samoa Campus Director, Tootooleaava Dr Fanaafi Aiono-Le Tagaloa delivered a brief introduction, encouraging students to engage with local culture through basic greetings and expressions.

This was followed by a presentation on Samoan history and culture by Reverend Dr Latu Latai, who captivated the audience with stories of Samoa’s past and traditions. Students were particularly intrigued by his demonstration of the fagufagu, a traditional Samoan nose flute handcrafted by Galumalemana Steve Percival of the Tiapapata Arts Centre.

The programme also highlighted contemporary issues facing Samoa. Technical Adviser of Science to Services at the Pacific Climate Change Centre (PCCC), Leota Yvette Kerslake spoke on climate change impacts, noting that around 70% of Samoa’s population lives along coastal areas and is especially vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

Despite the humid conditions, the visiting students remained in high spirits as they later explored Apia alongside their USP ‘buddies’ and mentors, gaining first-hand insight into Samoan daily life and community interactions.