Ex-Cop Proves Age no Barrier
“My advice to young people is that if I can study to become a plumber at the age of 50, you can also do it.”
Saturday 05 April 2025 | 02:15
Rusiate Pate, with wife Mareweieta Ioane during the Pacific Polytech graduation in Labasa on April 4, 2025. Photo: Shratika Naidu
A former police officer’s desire to help his community has driven him to pursue a National Certificate in Plumbing and Sheetmetal Level Three.
Rusiate Pate, 50, was one of the oldest students among the 97 graduates from Pacific Polytech at the Salvation Army Hall in Labasa on Friday.
“When it comes to serving others, age shouldn’t be a barrier,” Mr Pate said.
Related stories
“I am a father of seven children and seven grandchildren, and I have a passion to serve my people.”
Thanks to his new skills, he is now in a better position to contribute to plumbing work in Vunikura Village in Buca Bay, Cakaudrove, fulfilling his dream of helping his community.
“There are so many villagers who are in need of plumbing work and I am happy to help them even at an old age,” he said.
“My advice to young people is that if I can study to become a plumber at the age of 50, you can also do it.”
He thanked his wife, Mareweieta Ioane, a police officer, for her unwavering support.
The former student of Niusawa Methodist High School in Taveuni shared that returning to study wasn’t easy, but once he started, he felt excited and successfully completed the course.
Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj
