Migration to Viti Levu Augurs Well for Labourer's Family
“We do not have the luxury other children enjoy, but our parents will always make sure that we eat good food, have the best school uniforms and clothes they can buy, and attend school every day.
Friday 08 December 2023 | 17:19
Vikash Manian’s decision to migrate to Viti Levu from Labasa with his family in 2003 for the sake of his three children has paid off.
The 33-year-old labourer said he decided to leave behind land in Labasa in search of better education for his daughter and two sons.
On Wednesday, tears flowed when his eldest child, daughter Riya Maniam, 18, was named dux of Pt. Shreedhar College at Wainibokasi, Tailevu.
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She also scooped best subject prizes in chemistry, biology and home economics.
“My relatives were against the decision I made 20 years ago when I left everything behind in Labasa and brought my family to Suva to get good education for my children,” Mr Manian said.
His daughter collected plaques, a computer set, a mobile telephone and the dux prize.
She said it was a small token to thank her parents for the sacrifice they made daily for the family.
“We are poor and this drives me every day,” she said.
“I always secretly shed tears for my parents seeing how hard they work and the struggles we go through to ensure that we get everything.
“I did not know that I was going to be the dux, but all year long, I just made sure I work hard to get good marks and pass my external examination.
“We do not have the luxury other children enjoy, but our parents will always make sure that we eat good food, have the best school uniforms and clothes they can buy, and attend school every day.
“Even though I will always stay up late in studying, they will always stay awake even if I finish at 3am. They always encourage me to continue working hard. They are my best friends and this prize is for them.”
Her mother Vikashni, was the happiest to see their extended family join her on the momentous occasion.
“She is the eldest and her success always motivates her brothers. She topped Year 12 last year and now she is the dux. The proudest moment for a mother is to see her children succeed in school and in life. We know the sacrifice we made by moving to Suva is reaping its success.”
Riya plans to be a university lecturer in an university to motivate young people.
Former South Pacific and Fiji athletic champion Albert Miller was chief guest at the graduation.
Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj
