The National University of Samoa (NUS) together with its partners – the University of Otago and
the University of the South Pacific, Samoa Campus are proud to announce the second
Symposium on the Treaty of Friendship between Samoa and New Zealand, scheduled for
Monday, March 25, 2024, 1pm, Lecture Theatre D101 at Lepapaigalagala Campus, NUS.
The inaugural Treaty of Friendship Symposium held in 2022, in commemoration of the 60th
anniversary of this unique treaty. This second symposium, themed “Lumana’i Pasefika – Pacific
Futures,” aims to continue the dialogue and understanding on the evolving friendship and
cooperation between Samoa and New Zealand.
The Symposium offers an academic platform to explore and discuss the future of Pacific nations
in the context of their historical and contemporary relationships. It further highlights the
significance of friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding in shaping the future of the
Pacific region.
The Rt Hon Prime Minister of Samoa, Afioga Fiame Dr Naomi Mata’afa will give the official
address to open this momentous occasion. The Samoan scholars listed in the programme for
the Second Symposium on the Treaty of Friendship between Samoa and New Zealand are
distinguished academics leaders who are shaping the discussions on Pacific futures. Each of
these women holds a significant position within their respective institutions, contributing to the
development and understanding of social sciences, indigenous law, psychology, and broader
societal issues in the Pacific region.
Associate Professor Anita Latai-Niusulu, as the Head of the Social Sciences Department at the
National University of Samoa (NUS), plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of social
scientists. Her work involves both teaching and research, focusing on understanding climate

change and resilience and the social dynamics and challenges within Samoan society and the
wider Pacific.
To’oto’ooleaava Dr Fanaafi Aiono-Le Tagaloa, the Director of the University of the South Pacific
(USP) Samoa Campus, is positioned at the helm of one of the Pacific region’s most important
institutions for higher education. Her leadership role and vast background in International laws
underscores her influence in shaping educational policies and programmes that cater to the
unique needs of Pacific Island nations.
Dr Tamasailau Suaalii-Sauni, Associate Professor of Criminology at the University of Auckland,
contributes to the academic landscape through her research and teaching. Her position as a
senior lecturer indicates a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in her field of Sociology
and criminology, which are issues pertinent to Pacific communities and their futures.
Lē’ena Professor Siautu Alefaio-Tugia, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Otago,
brings a critical psychological perspective to the discussion of Pacific futures. Her expertise in
Pacific psychology allows for a deeper understanding of the mental health and well-being of
Pacific peoples, an essential component of shaping a prosperous future for the region.
Historians Professor Tony Ballantyne, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Otago and Tuala
Saui’a Dr. Louise Mataia Milo, Dean – Faculty of Arts, NUS will deliver a comprehensive
summation on Pacific futures in relation to the Treaty of Friendship. Their insights will explore the
treaty’s impact on regional dynamics and future collaborations.
Collectively, these Samoan scholars represent a formidable force in directing Samoa and
Pacific’s future. Their academic and leadership roles enable them to influence both policy and
public opinion, guiding the region towards sustainable development, cultural preservation, and
enhanced regional cooperation. Their participation in the symposium as panelists highlight their
significant contributions to the dialogue on Pacific futures, emphasizing the critical role of the
academic institutions in leading and shaping the future of Samoa and the broader Pacific
region and beyond.
During the initial planning discussions for the symposium, the three partners—National University
of Samoa (NUS), and the University of Otago, agreed to make the event biennial, with hosting

duties rotating between them. However, an exception was to return to NUS for the second
symposium in recognition of its 40th anniversary and to commemorate the 20th year of the
Memorandum of Understanding between NUS and Otago University.
For additional details about the symposium, including registration information for zoom
participation and the full programme, please visit the National University of Samoa’s official
website or contact the symposium organizers: l.mataia@nus.edu.ws, tofilau@otago.ac.nz