Grandmother, 76, graduates to build a better future for grandson

Tears of joy flowed down the face of 76-year-old Sovaia Vusoinawawa as she walked across the stage at Pacific Polytech's graduation ceremony in Nausori on Friday.

The grandmother from Narocivo, Rewa, was the oldest graduate in her cohort, successfully completing a sewing course that she hopes will help her earn an income and provide a better life for the grandson she is raising.

For Ms Vusoinawawa, the qualification represents more than a certificate. It is a chance to ease the financial pressures she faces while caring for her grandson on a limited social welfare allowance.

“I needed to study and take up this course because I have to earn and provide for my grandson. Since I live only with my grandson, I try my best to buy things to help with his education,” she said.

Ms Vusoinawawa said she and her grandson depend entirely on social welfare payments each month.

“Every fifth day of the month me and my grandson receive our social welfare money, which is our only source of income.”

“The money is sufficient for our daily needs but still it is not enough for the both of us. One hundred dollars I dedicate to my grandson’s expenses and the rest is mine and I use it to buy whatever we need in the house.”

Despite the challenges, her grandson remains her priority.

One of the hardest moments, she said, is when she cannot immediately afford the things he needs for school and sport.

“When my grandson cries I tell him wait for the next pay then I buy your rugby boots. He plays rugby in school and he desperately needs a pair of boots.”

Ms Vusoinawawa said sewing has always been a passion, which motivated her to enrol in the programme.

“When I started the course, I was motivated because it was always my passion to sew. I applied for the course as the 26th woman.”

“I learned how to sew sulu and jaba, dresses and shirts; we were given sewing machines.”

She now hopes to use those skills to earn an income and become more self-reliant.

Ms Vusoinawawa also appealed to Government to consider further support for elderly citizens struggling with the rising cost of living, including assistance with water and electricity bills.

Despite her age, she believes learning should never stop and encouraged others to take advantage of training opportunities.

“I urge all men, women and those my age, when there is something to do with education please attend so that we also have knowledge of education, so that we could earn money, especially when we are unemployed,” she said.

Her message is simple: it is never too late to learn, and it is never too late to create a better future for those you love.