Roshil Chand said he was relieved to finally receive his Certificate II in Automotive Mechanic Engineering during the Fiji National University, Lautoka Campus graduation on Friday.

The former Nadroga Arya College student resides with his family in Batiri, Sigatoka and was one of many students travelling from around the Western Division with family members to collect their certificates. There was no official graduation ceremony due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“It was just a one-year programme and I started in March last year, but I want to do Certificate IV in Automotive Engineering and after that, a diploma, but for further studies Il have to go to New Zealand,” he said.

The 18-year-old said his interest in mechanical engineering started at a young age.

“Mechanical is all about knowledge and understanding, but it also needs maths and calculations so that’s what interested me,” he said

He took a total of 15 units, which included basic instructions on engine operation and its various functions.

“I dedicate my achievement to my uncle in New Zealand who knows I’m graduating today and he said to upgrade my studying to Automotive engineering,” he said.

His mother Riteshna Chand said her son’s achievement would be a stepping stone for his future academic goals.

“I told him that studying is everything and if you don’t study then you can’t succeed in your life,” she said.

“His uncle in New Zealand always encourages him and every time he asks questions over the phone and they do video calls so whatever he does not know, his uncle can help him.”

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