Nothing is impossible if the heart is willing.

These were the words of Malakai Raikoti, who is excited to be back in the classroom after 32 years in the workforce.

The retired civil servant is currently enrolled with the College of Humanities and Education pursuing a Certificate IV in Graphic Arts.

Mr Raikoti was a Mediator with Ministry of Labour before his retirement in 2016.

“When I retired, it was a good thinking and processing period,” he said.

“For someone who was working for more than thirty years, to be home was another new experience.

“I was considering my options and what I could pursue further so I am not home idly.

“I initially wanted to be an architect because I had the passion for drawing. When I joined the then Fiji Institute of Technology (FIT) my aim was to major in building and civil engineering.

“Soon after I graduated, I was attached with a government department as a draftsman estimator and that was where my love for designing was really nurtured and developed.”

Originally from Cautata in Tailevu, Mr Raikoti is determined to complete the one year programme and venture into a private business in Graphic Arts.

“A lot has changed with designing with the invention and evolution of technology,” he said.

“I am now exposed to new materials such as Mac computers for work and the young students are very well adapted to these technologies, but I am confident in the duration of my study. I will come out better and more knowledgeable than when I first joined.”

Mr Raikoti highlighted there was a big future in graphic arts as signage works and designing was a need for almost every company.

“I definitely hope to setup my own small business after graduation. And I know a lot of young graduates are still looking for a place to work. I had enrolled my nephew along with me for the programme and I hope we can team up for this new business plan,” he said.

“I am excited about this programme; it has awakened a passion that was within me but not recognised. I believe anyone going in this direction with designing work can be very successful. I encourage everyone to recognise the passion within them and live the dream.”