Matai thanks late mum for having confidence in her
Maria Matai could not stop crying when she received her certificate during the Sangam Institute of Technology College of Nursing and Health Care Education graduation yesterday.
Just a few weeks ago, she lost one of the most important people in her life, her aunt, whom she called mother and who raised her since she was six-years-old.
“Today I can’t stop crying because my mother who is also my aunty (Sainamere Raiova) is not here with me,” Ms Matai said.
“She and my uncle, Josefa Raiova a retired military officer had been preparing for my graduation for over six months.
“They had confidence in me and knew that I would graduate,” the 22-year-old said.
“She always encouraged me to work hard and never left me a moment to feel that I was an adopted child.
“I am really sad because my dream to see my parents stand beside me did not come true. I am standing with my uncle who is without his wife whom he dearly loved.
“Nevertheless, while experiencing this loss I would like to thank the Lord for His grace and allowing me to graduate.
“I know that my mother is in heaven and I would like to tell her that this certificate is for you and I love you.”
Ms Matai hails from Dreketilailai in Macuata.
Meanwhile, Arsheenam Prasad while delivering her vote of thanks before 114 graduates in Bachelor of Nursing Science said: “To become a nurse is a decision that is not ours, it is a calling from God.
“I would like to reiterate what the chief guest, a prominent lawyer Richard Naidu said that a degree is not the end of one’s learning, it is the beginning,” the only daughter of Rohini Prasad and Amresh Prasad said.
“The life of a nurse is not easy and relaxing.
“We should strive to be the best we can and that means endless professionalism.”
“I would like to thank the college’s staff, lecturers, head of school, chairperson of the board and my family for being very supportive,” she said.
“I am really honoured to hold this special leadership award and more grateful to end my nursing education on a high note.”
Edited by Ranoba Baoa
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