This week’s Health Science Academy (HSA) Fono was very well attended by current HSA students, their whānau, and prospective junior students.

The informative and enjoyable evening opened with warm welcomes from HSA Director Ms. Luseane Lousi and Principal Mrs. Shameen Hayat. Year 12 students Kristin McIntyre, Lyssa Pangan, and Dellos Kaliatama shared highlights of the Academy’s activities so far this year. They noted that the HSA stand at the recent Careers Expo provided a valuable opportunity for junior students to learn more about the Academy directly from their senior peers.

Students were reminded of the importance of attending Wednesday Period 5 tutorials, and Year 10 students considering the Academy were advised to select both General Science and Double Science in 2026 to be eligible for consideration.

A highlight of the evening was the inspiring panel of five guest speakers, four of whom are OHS alumni. First-year university students Riya Chettiar and Janice Nair shared insights into their transition to tertiary study. Janice, currently studying Health Science at the University of Auckland, encouraged students to “go for it” and embrace every opportunity.

Dr. Saleimoa Bill Sami, an anaesthetist, and Aniva Galumalemana, an anaesthetic technician, spoke about the critical roles they play in the operating theatre and emphasised the importance of teamwork and communication in the medical field.

Dr. Jessie Jacobson, Senior Lecturer in Medical Genetics and Genomics at the University of Auckland, and alumna Suzanne Musgrave, a PhD student in her department, discussed the vital role of medical research in improving health outcomes.

The cultural performance by Tali Feu’u and Alofa Lawrence was well received. The evening concluded with the serving of light refreshments, giving students, whānau, and guests a chance to connect, chat informally, and engage further with the speakers and one another.

A huge thank you and well done to all involved in organising and supporting this successful event.