Prakash recalls study success despite being blind

Never let anyone tell you that you are worthless; instead turn around and ask them for an opportunity.

These were the words of one of the 48 Australian Awards Alumni, Ranjesh Prakash, 28, who despite being visually impaired, successfully completed his Bachelor’s in International Development Studies from the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne.

Mr Prakash of Vatulaulau in Ba, is youngest of two siblings and had been visually impaired since the age of 10. He currently has five per cent vision on his right eye which is sufficient to see light, and distinguish between day and night.

He received his scholarship in 2014 and completed it in 2017. He returned home and currently volunteers at the Fiji School of the Blind.

While sharing his experience during the Australian Awards Alumni networking event and tribute to International Women’s Day 2018 held at Suva’s Holiday Inn on Wednesday, Mr Prakash said: “We are human and we also have dignity. We, as persons with disability, we are fearful and we flourish in the community.”

He said the scholarship boosted his confidence.

“Through the scholarship, I gained the ability of a ‘can-do attitude’ and do anything with confidence,” he said.

“I have gained a lot of positive qualities from the scholarship and learning new and different cultures around the region.”

He said it was a moment of joy when he had received a phone call of the scholarship award.

“Stepping into a new place was not easy for me. My brother had travelled with me to Australia to settle me down for a month and returned back,” he said.

“Being visually impaired, the experience of being in a new city, new atmosphere and infrastructure was scary.

“It was not easy to make friends with anyone, especially the locals. But I did make some friends with international students and locals.

“But with God’s blessing, everything went great and I was able to complete my studies.”

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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