Agriculture graduate vows to repay mother's sacrifices

Raised by a single mother on welfare, Jefica Bulavou has overcome financial hardship and transport challenges to graduate with a National Certificate in Agriculture (Crop Production) Level 3 from Pacific Polytech.

Mr Bulavou, from Naloto, Verata in Tailevu, with maternal links to Keteira, Moala in Lau, graduated today at at Vunimono Hall in Nausori.

He dedicated the achievement to his mother, who raised him alone despite the family's financial struggles.

"I am really happy being graduated today and I want to thank my mother for staying by my side through my studies till today," he said.

After completing Form Six, Mr Bulavou spent a year at home before receiving the opportunity to study at Pacific Polytech.

Travelling to classes was often difficult because he relied on available transport from his village. On some occasions, the lack of transport forced him to miss classes.

Despite the setbacks, he remained committed to completing his studies and making the most of the opportunity.

Mr Bulavou said his mother was unemployed and the family relied on social welfare assistance to meet basic needs.

Those circumstances strengthened his determination to gain an education, secure employment and support the mother who had sacrificed so much for him.

He said his qualification had equipped him with practical skills in crop production and provided a pathway towards financial independence.

His next goal is to find employment and use his skills to build a stable future while giving back to his mother.

Mr Bulavou encouraged other young people facing financial or personal challenges not to give up on their education.

"This is the time we need to go back to school and get a job so that we can help our parents since they were the ones looking after us when we were small," he said.

For Mr Bulavou, graduation marks not only the completion of his studies but the beginning of his commitment to support the person who made his education possible.