34-Year-Old Graduate Proves Age is Just a Number
“I realise the importance of having certificates because they make it easier to find employment. I didn’t want my age be a barrier to furthering my studies, and I never let anyone tell me that I couldn’t study at this age.”
Monday 06 May 2024 | 12:51
From left: Proud brother Nasoni Ravosai, graduate Marika Tuikaba Ravosai, and mother Elena Ravosai at the Pacific Polytech graduation in Nausori on May 3, 2024. Photo: Wati Talebula-Nuku
After 19 years, Marika Tuikaba Ravosai decided to give himself another try at education.
Last Friday, the 34-year-old stood proud as he graduated from Pacific Polytech with a National Certificate in Carpentry (Level 3).
Mr Ravosai emphasised that age should not be a barrier when pursuing education.
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He studied until Form Four (Year 10) and then began doing odd jobs to support his family.
“When COVID-19 hit Fiji, I became unemployed, and that was when I started farming. One day, while browsing Facebook, I came across the courses that Pacific Polytech was offering. I applied for a scholarship and got it,” Mr Ravosai said.
“I realise the importance of having certificates because they make it easier to find employment. I didn’t want my age be a barrier to furthering my studies, and I never let anyone tell me that I couldn’t study at this age.”
He is the fourth eldest of eight siblings.
“The last time I studied was in 2005, and studying again after many years was tough at first, but I continued to remind myself why I was doing this,” Mr Ravosai said.
“My mother raised us single-handedly. It feels good to have my mother here with me to witness one of my many certificates. I am proud of myself because I come from a family that faces a lot of challenges, but that didn’t demotivate me.”
He hopes to apply for work and pursue higher education.
His mother, Elena Ravosai, thanked her son for always doing his best in everything.
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
