The National University of Samoa (NUS) launched the new logo and lali, the traditional
Samoan instruments, at a special ceremony held on Wednesday 17th July 2024 at our NUS
Le Papaigalagala Campus.

In her keynote speech, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor NUS, Tavu’i Dr. Niusila Faamanatu-
Eteuati, acknowledged the significance of the logo and lali to NUS and its connection to

the university’s values and identity. She expressed her gratitude to Professor Emma Sutton,
of the University of St Andrews in Scotland, who is the principal researcher behind the
project, for her vision and tireless efforts to bring this initiative to life.
The logo and lali were created as part of a research collaboration between the Faculty of
Education Music Team at NUS, the Centre for Samoan Studies and the University of St.
Andrews in Scotland. The research team was led by Professor Emma Sutton, Susau
Solomona, Tavu’i Dr. Niusila Faamanatu-Eteuati, Ta’iao Dr. Matavai Tautunu, Rosaiviti
Solomona and Cherimoniva Wright. The project aimed at recovering Samoan Instrumental
Music to promote cultural heritage and enterprise. It took a few years for the team to
search for the right tree type and size and they acknowledged the support from the
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The logo and lali were carved from the
ma’ali tree discovered in the village of Letui in Savaii. The work was done by the master
carver Avamua and co-worker from Fagaloa. The word ‘logo’ was used in the past for the
huge ‘lali. These instruments will be used to signal important events and gatherings on
campus such as the university graduation or a special meeting.
“This is not just about creating a symbol or an instrument, but about reconnecting with our
heritage and our cultural roots,” said Professor Emma Sutton. “We hope that these
instruments will not only be used on campus but will also inspire a new generation of
Samoans to appreciate and preserve our traditional culture.”
The launch was attended by distinguished guests, including Professor Emma Sutton from
the University of St Andrews, Dr. Tony Crook and his family, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua
Tamasese Efi who is the former Head of State of Samoa, Deputy British High Commissioner
to Samoa, Robert Ower and staff, as well as NUS colleagues.
The event marked a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to promote cultural
preservation and community engagement. There will also be an exhibition in the future

of other traditional musical instruments such as the pulotu, fagufagu, nafa and more which
will continue to showcase Samoa’s rich cultural heritage. “This is a crucial occasion for NUS,
and we are honoured to have had the opportunity to work with Professor Sutton and her
team,” said Tavu’i Dr. Niusila Faamanatu-Eteuati. “We look forward to seeing how these
instruments will resonate with our values and identity.”
The launch was concluded with guests taking turns in the beating of the logo and lali.