Financial hardship fails to stop aspiring chef's graduation dream
Unable to afford transport on some days, Kitione Saranuku relied on online learning and determination to earn his culinary qualification.
Sunday 28 June 2026 | 04:00
Fiji National University Advanced Culinary Skills graduate Kitione Saranuku (left) with fellow graduate Josateki Vuluma after their graduation ceremony at the FNU Namaka Campus in Nadi on June 24, 2026.
Photo: Katherine Naidu
When Kitione Saranuku could not afford the bus fare to university, he refused to let financial hardship stand in the way of his dream.
Instead of missing classes, the 20-year-old from Nasau Village in Mudu, Lomaiviti, and now living in Lautoka, contacted his lecturer, logged on to the Fiji National University's online learning platform and continued studying.
He shares maternal links to Tubou Village in Lakeba, Lau.
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His determination paid off when he graduated from the university's Namaka Campus in Nadi on Wednesday with a Certificate of Attainment in Advanced Culinary Skills.
"I love watching master chefs on TV, and that inspired me to become a chef," Mr Saranuku said.
"That is why I applied for this programme, and now I have finally graduated."
As the eldest of four siblings, Mr Saranuku said giving up was never an option despite the financial challenges his family faced.
"One of the biggest challenges I faced was not having bus fare to come to university on some days.
"I would call my lecturer and explain my situation, and thanks to the digital era we live in, he would tell me to check the university Moodle. That way, I was able to keep up with my studies and not fall behind."
Mr Saranuku credited his parents' encouragement for helping him persevere.
"There were times when it was hard, but my parents kept me going. They always advised me to work hard and never give up, no matter what obstacles came my way. I listened to their advice, and now I have graduated."
His passion for cooking began in childhood while watching master chefs on television, a passion he has now turned into the foundation of his career.
Mr Saranuku hopes to secure a position at one of Fiji's resorts and build a future doing what he loves.
He also hopes his journey will inspire other young people facing hardship.
"Work hard, follow your dreams and listen to your parents and guardians. As it is written in the Bible, honour your father and mother, and you will be blessed."
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