Apia, Samoa – Friday 19th July 2024
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.
END.
SOURCE – The National University of Samoa
