Behind every graduate is a family, says Vosarogo

Family support and the shared desire to see loved ones succeed academically continue to pave the way for many Fijian students graduating each year.

Chief guest at the Fiji National University (FNU) Labasa Campus graduation yesterday, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo, said family mattered more than titles.

He said while graduates would walk away with new academic titles, it was the family behind each student that truly played a vital role in producing another graduate for Fiji, instilling hope in the sectors they would serve.

More than 50 students graduated across certificate, diploma, degree, postgraduate, master’s and doctoral programmes.

Mr Vosarogo reminded graduates that family members quietly supported them throughout their academic journey, despite the many challenges faced along the way.

“Someone woke up early to prepare your meals, someone did your chores, while others gave you pocket money and helped transport you to school,” he said.

“While they shed tears of joy today, they also remember the struggles both of you went through.”

“You have made your families proud, and this memory will be cherished for a very long time.”

Mr Vosarogo thanked FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba for the invitation, which he said he accepted not merely as an official obligation but as a personal commitment, as he had returned home to Vanua Levu.

He said many parents hid their struggles from their children to prevent discouragement during their studies.

“That’s the heart of a parent,” he said.

While financial stability was important, Mr Vosarogo stressed that the constant presence, encouragement and character of parents kept students motivated to persevere, graduate and secure meaningful employment.

Before celebrations began, he asked graduates to carry out one simple task.

“Turn to your families, look them in the eyes, hold their hands and say thank you for being there,” he said.

Graduate Tamalesi Tuibabasiga said her family, like many others, was her pillar of strength.

Ms Tuibabasiga said graduating in front of her loved ones was a dream she had engraved in her heart from the first day she enrolled in the Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) programme.

Mr Vosarogo also encouraged graduates to remain resilient as they faced life beyond university.

“You will face disappointment and rejection when applying for jobs, and at times you will get a flat ‘no’. Don’t give up — you will get there eventually,” he said.

“Don’t be afraid to fail; be afraid of not trying your best.”

He shared his own experience of beginning his legal career, where he lost multiple court cases to senior lawyers in his early years.

However, he said those setbacks did not deter him, as perseverance eventually helped him master his profession and build a reputation as a credible lawyer, representing high-profile cases across the Pacific.