Forty-three-year-old Peni Kauivalenibula is a shining example of how Fijians have used the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme to turn their lives around.

The Fiji Sun published his story yesterday about how a person who sleeps on the streets is turning his life around and using a scheme designed to assist Fijians.

Mr Kauivalenibula did not wait for a Government department to come and give him a hand-out. No!

He knew of TELS and used it. And not only that. Mr Kauivalenibula is studying to be a surveyor. Fiji has suffered because we have not had enough surveyors in the country. But, when he graduates, he will make a difference in his life, but also give back to Fiji by using his much needed skillset here.

We have also highlighted a number of stories about students who are independently funding their education through TELS.

This side of TELS programme is seldom highlighted by politicians, but the fact remains that more Fijians are now getting tertiary education.

The fact is that more people like Mr Kauivalenibula have been able to further their education and in Mr Kauivalenibula’s case, with sheer determination, he is able to turn his life around.

Yes, the recipients of TELS will have to pay back the loan. But, what scenario is better? Being able to graduate, find a job and pay off your student loans or not being able to afford a tertiary education and spending your days roaming the streets?

Student loans are nothing unique to Fiji. There are hundreds of people out there regretting that something of this sort was not available 20 to 30 years ago. If it was, Fiji would have been closer to becoming the Singapore of the Pacific.

The fact is that TELS is helping people realise their dreams of getting a tertiary education. We cannot ignore this.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj