A father of five couldn’t hold back his tears at the graduation ceremony of Fiji National University, as he witnessed his eldest son, Sakaraia Qilu, 22, being honored with two prestigious awards: the Outstanding Academic Achievement Graduate in Nursing and the Certificate of Excellence and Dean’s Honours.
Alipate Moli, who has been the sole provider for his family, brought his entire family to celebrate Sakaraia’s accomplishments. “This is the proudest moment for any father who has worked tirelessly to ensure his children succeed,” Mr. Moli expressed. Working as a hotel employee, he spends 11 days on the island and only three days at home. Despite this limited family time, he diligently stays in touch with his children to check on their academic progress.
Mr. Qilu’s success is not entirely unexpected; he excelled academically in his earlier schooling, earning accolades during his time at Saint Peter Chanel School in Korolevu, Nadroga. His passion for nursing stems from a genuine desire to care for others, prompting him to consider various career paths including nursing, public health, and teaching.
Looking ahead, Mr. Qilu plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery and eventually a doctorate. He aims to inspire his siblings by emphasizing the importance of education and steering them away from negative influences. “I want them to strive for excellence and avoid paths that lead to substance abuse or aimlessness,” he highlighted.
In a piece of advice to younger students, Mr. Qilu said, “Surround yourself with positive friends who encourage you to progress; with a good support system, success is achievable.”
This story is a wonderful reminder of the power of perseverance and the impact of a supportive family. It shows that dedication and hard work can lead to outstanding achievements, not only for individuals but for their families and communities as well. As Mr. Qilu embarks on his next educational journey, he sets a positive example for others, highlighting the importance of education and the support we give one another in achieving our dreams.
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