Samuela Rogokaci Bokadi promised himself that he would follow the last advice his mother gave him before she passed away early this year.

The 25-year-old was one of the 20 inmates who graduated with the National Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 1) at the Nasinu Vocational Training School on Friday. Mr Bokadi hails from Suvavou Village with maternal links to Lamiti Village, Gau in the Lomaiviti Province.

“I only reached Class One and never went back to school and to graduate with Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level One) is something I never expected. I hope to do Level Two next year,” Mr Bokadi said.

“Prison has taught me a lot. It has taught me to be a better person and when I am released from prison I can get a job in the automotive field.

“Being here has taught me to keep trying to be a better person. I am not a perfect person, but I am trying to live a better and honest life.

“I am sad because my mother is not here to witness this day. The last advice my mother gave me is for me to change and be the best version of myself.”

Rewa family care co-ordinator Joseva Vesikara was at the event to witness Mr Bokadi’s graduation.

“The Roko Tui Rewa accompanied me to witness Mr Bokadi’s graduation. The duty officer has confirmed that he wants to continue Level Two. We are here to make it easier for him to integrate back to the community when he is released,” Mr Vesikara said.

“The province is working with the Fiji Corrections Service, the church and the Turaga-ni-koro to make it easier for those from Rewa who are incarcerated to be accepted by their families.”

Story By: WATI TALEBULA-NUKU

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