House fire survivor graduates with degree

University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Bachelor of Agriculture Degree student, Deepika Darshana Dayal was among proud graduates at the Vodafone Arena in Suva yesterday.

She held her head high while walking across the graduation dias to receive her degree.

Just last year, her family home in Sarava, Labasa, was destroyed in a fire, leaving her and her loved ones homeless, and with nothing.

Since then, she had to struggle to complete her studies as a private student, while managing the mental and financial stress from the fire incident.

“It was one of the hardest times for my family” Ms Dayal said.

“Our home got burned and everything was destroyed. My parents were struggling to pay for my school fees as a private student.” she said.

Despite the devastation, she persevered with the support of her family’s farm and the generosity of friends and relatives who stepped in to help.

“Our family and friends helped us when we were in need and my family through sugarcane farming, we were able to pay my school fees. With God’s grace, we overcame the crisis.” she said.

Her graduation was not just a personal victory, but a symbol of resilience and determination.

Ms Dayal chose agriculture studies to give back to her farming community.

She is now working with the Ministry of Agriculture based in Bua as a field assistant and plans to continue her studies while also supporting her family’s farm.

Her advice to other students facing challenges is simple but powerful: “Work hard, continue studying further, and achieve your goals.”

Feedback: talei.roko@fijisun.com.fj