Kaikaba Brothers beat the odds to graduate together

Two brothers from Naila, Bau in Tailevu shared a proud moment on Saturday when they graduated together from Montfort Boys Town in Veisari.

Joseva Kaikaba, 20, claimed the prestigious Dux award — the highest academic honour given to the top-performing student — along with the Brother Oliver Memorial Trophy for cabinet making.

His younger brother Dominiko, 19, earned his Fiji National University Trade Certificate Class 3 and National Qualification Certificate Level 3 in Fitting and Machining.

“I was shocked,” Joseva said of his top honours. “I didn’t expect it.”

The brothers faced similar struggles throughout their two-year training, often arriving late due to bus fare issues at home. But they pushed through.

“Sometimes we have to come later due to some issues at home," Dominiko said. “Bus fare issues.”

Their parents travelled from Lautoka, where they live and work, to witness their sons’ graduation.

Though the distance made regular visits difficult, their encouragement kept the brothers focused.

“My parents always are talking to me at home, encouraging me to come to school even though they are far,” Joseva said.

Joseva also received awards for best student in cabinet making and best attendance.

He dreams of becoming a cabinet maker and joiner.

“We can make things from waste wood. We can build houses and all that,” he said.

Dominiko wants to become a fitter machinist — a tradesperson who assembles, maintains and repairs machinery and mechanical equipment.

Both brothers dedicated their success to their parents and relatives.

“Never give up,” Dominiko said.

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