Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, is one of six eminent past graduates of the University of Auckland who will this week be recognised for their contribution to society.
Mr Malielegaoi, who was the first Samoan person to receive a masters in commerce degree from the university, will receive a Distinguished Alumni Award for his work in Samoan politics.
Our Samoa correspondent, Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia says the Prime Minister's new honour reflects his ambition to lead his country by example.
"It will benefit the country publicity-wise I would think, but it adds another milestone to the Prime Minister's list of qualifications in accounts. He's a qualified accountant (and), he's a former Minister of Finance for so many years. You know it will recognise his achievements as a leader of this country."
Former All-Black player, Michael Jones was the first Samoan to receive the distinguished Alumni honour in 1997.
