An emotional ceremony unfolded last week at the University of Fiji’s Saweni campus in Lautoka, where Anushka Ashika Chand graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing with honors. At 27 years old, this milestone brought her to tears as she reflected on the sacrifices made by her parents to support her education journey.
Chand shared that her parents’ unwavering support remained steadfast, even through significant challenges, including her father’s health issues. After her father suffered a minor stroke, she took a semester off and contemplated abandoning her studies entirely. However, inspiration from her father’s wish for her to become a nurse reignited her motivation. “Growing up, my dad always expressed his desire for me to wear a nurse’s uniform,” she recalled, which ultimately guided her decision to return to university and pursue nursing.
Despite initially facing obstacles—doing a foundation program instead of completing Year 13 studies—Chand persevered. Her parents made considerable sacrifices, withdrawing their savings from the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) to fund her education after their previous support could not be guaranteed through the Tertiary Student Loan Scheme.
Her graduation represented not just her achievement, but an emotional moment for her family. “Seeing my parents travel from Vunika in Labasa to attend my graduation meant the world to me,” she expressed. Throughout her studies, she often felt overwhelmed and concerned about disappointing her parents but credited their encouragement for helping her succeed.
Now that she has graduated, Chand is eager to advance her career and further her education, with aspirations to specialize in midwifery. She encourages young women aspiring to enter the nursing profession to remain hopeful and appreciate the support of their parents. “If you have them beside you, you can achieve anything,” she advised in a heartfelt message.
Chand’s story is a poignant reminder of the power of resilience and familial support, and her journey highlights the importance of pursuing dreams against the odds. With plans for further education and a vibrant future ahead, she embodies hope for aspiring nurses everywhere.
This graduation not only marks a personal triumph for Chand but also sets a precedent in her family, inspiring future generations and emphasizing the impact of determination and family support in achieving one’s goals.
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