10th Measina Conference Celebrate Resilience in Times of Adversity

Apia, Samoa – 30 October 2025 – The National University of Samoa officially opened the 10th Measina Conference 2025 this morning with an ‘Ava o le Feiloa‘iga ceremony, that acknowledged the sacred cultural protocols of Samoa and welcoming the esteemed guests, presenters and participants.

This year’s theme, E Tetele a Pesega ae Matua i le Ō’ō – “Resilience and Innovation in Times of Adversity” that highlight the enduring strength and adaptive spirit of the Samoan people, especially in times of great challenge.

The 10th Measina Conference is one of NUS’s most significant academic and cultural gatherings.

The opening devotion was led by Fr Paletasala Leota, Chancellor – Chancery Office of the Archdiocese Apia, setting a respectful and reflective tone for the two-day event.

The conference keynote address was delivered by his Honour, Afioga Lesātele Rapi Vaai, President of the Land and Titles Court. His remarks emphasized the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern approaches to navigate the complexities of today’s world while safeguarding our cultural “Measina” – the lands and titles.

President of the Lands and Titles Court, Afioga Lesātele Rapi Vaai (3rd from left) with NUS Faculty, the reigning Miss Samoa and Miss Samoa 2025 contestants and guests at this mornings session.

Over the course of two days, the Measina Conference will feature a diverse range of presentations and discussions that explore different dimensions of measina – language, culture, values, lands, titles, history origins and genealogy and their role in education, development of communication diplomacy, marketing, business, ethical leadership, cultural identity, social cohesion, law and order as well as sustainable livelihoods to name a few.

The value of this conference lists not only in preserving Samoa’s heritage, but also in creating a platform where traditional knowledge meets modern solutions.

Scholars, practitioners, and community leaders will share insights into language, oratory traditions, genealogy, heritage preservation, education, and contemporary innovation rooted in Samoan values.

NUS also acknowledges the sponsors whose generous support has made this event possible: Samoa Qualifications Authority, Kontiki Finance, Samoa Life Assurance Corporation, Digicel Pacific, Samoa Stationery and Books, Samoa Commercial Bank, National Bank of Samoa, Greenology, Bank of South Pacific, Moanava NZ, and Eveni Carruthers.

The Measina Conference continues to serve as a vital platform for cultural research, dialogue, and collaboration—ensuring that our heritage remains a living, evolving part of our national identity.