From dream to PhD: Nayacalevu breaks ground at ANU

For years, Romulo Nayacalevu carried a quiet reminder of a dream, writing “PhD” next to his name after graduating with a law degree from the University of the South Pacific. It was not a title he had yet earned, but a promise to himself that one day it would become reality.

Last week, that vision was realised when Mr Nayacalevu graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Law from the Australian National University (ANU), becoming the first iTaukei and Pacific Islander to achieve the milestone at the prestigious institution.

For the Fijian lawyer, the achievement was more than a personal success. It marked the fulfilment of years of faith, sacrifice and encouragement from family members who believed education could change lives.

Mr Nayacalevu said his journey began long before university, shaped by parents who stressed the value of education despite having limited opportunities themselves. Their example became the driving force behind his determination to succeed.

“When I was in high school, I set the dream of one day achieving this PhD,” he said, adding that every step of his academic and professional life was guided by that goal.

The path was not without challenges. In 2020, just as he prepared to leave his job and begin doctoral studies in Australia, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, closing borders and forcing him to start his research remotely. For more than a year, he continued his studies online before finally relocating to Australia to complete the programme.

Despite the uncertainty, Mr Nayacalevu remained focused, viewing the disruption not as a setback but as another challenge to overcome.

His doctoral research focuses on strengthening human rights protection systems in the Pacific, arguing that national human rights institutions and regional mechanisms are essential to improving governance and accountability across island nations. Drawing on nearly two decades of professional experience working in human rights across the region, he said the thesis was designed to offer practical solutions for Pacific countries.

Walking across the graduation stage, Mr Nayacalevu said the moment was deeply emotional, not just for himself, but for the many people whose hopes he felt he carried with him.

“You’re not just walking alone,” he said.

“You’re walking with your family, your community and your nation.”

Mr Nayacalevu hopes his achievement will inspire young Fijians, especially those who doubt their potential or face financial and personal challenges, to continue pursuing education.

“Education opens doors,” he said, adding that dreams become possible when people remain committed to their vision despite obstacles along the way.

From a young graduate who once wrote “PhD” beside his name for motivation to a scholar now addressed as “Doctor”, his journey is a reminder that persistence, faith and determination can turn distant dreams into reality.