Nothing is impossible, says ophthalmology graduate

At 32, Dr Remonasiga Ratu of Tavua Village, Malolo in Nadroga has earned his Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmology, a milestone he once thought out of reach.

Returning to school after seven years was only part of the challenge.

He had to adjust to life in Suva, the long commutes in heavy traffic, and the pressure of newly married life, all while tackling a demanding postgraduate programme.

“It was difficult juggling all of this, but I thank God for everything,” he said.

He said the need to stay updated in a rapidly evolving medical field pushed him back into study.

“You need to upskill yourself to give your best to the people you serve,” he said.

He did not hide the setbacks that shaped him. In Form Four, he once scored five out of 100 in Mathematics — a moment he now recalls with a smile.

“Medical school also had tough exams. But you have to pick yourself up and keep going, it’s not the end of the world,” he said.

Dr Ratu dedicated his achievement to God, his wife and daughter Leilani, his wider family, lecturers and colleagues, saying graduation was “always a team effort”.

Now a medical registrar at the Aspen Medical–managed Lautoka Hospital, he hopes his story will encourage other young doctors and students who may feel overwhelmed.

“Nothing is impossible. Keep God at the centre of your life, and everything will fall into place,” he said.