Providing a better life for 18-year-old bedridden grandson was Naomi Vuto’s motivation to graduate.

The 68-year-old was among the 47 women who graduated at the Makoi Women’s Vocational Training Centre in Nasinu yesterday.

The saying ‘age is not a barrier when it comes to education’ was true for Ms Vuto as she proudly walked up the aisle in her beautiful sulu jaba sewed by her to receive her hard earned certificate in sewing.

“Anyone can do it regardless of their age,” Ms Vuto said.

“I heard about this course from my sister’s daughter who had also graduated from here.

“My son has to fill out the form. I was called for an interview and after a short while I was told I had been accepted.

“I was so happy knowing that I will finally be able to support my family.”

Ms Vuto had been taking care of her grandchild ever since he was born.

“Two of my grandchildren are handicapped, unfortunately one of them passed on when he was 13-years-old,” she said.

“The doctor said my grandchild would live longer if we took care of his needs and kept him happy, which is why I wanted to take up this short course.”

Ms Vuto’s son, who is a casual worker, is the sole breadwinner in their family. He is not able to work well because he is worried about his son.

“My son is the only bread-winner in the family but when he is at work, he is worried about his son at home,” Ms Vuto said.

The 68-year-old worked at a garment factory for more than 10 years as a cheque collector. This was where her interest in sewing developed.

“My goal is to support my family and myself by whichever means.

“Now, the only thing left is to buy a sewing machine.”

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