Shalvin Kumar and Sheema Lata, a teaching couple from the University of the South Pacific, celebrated a significant milestone during the graduation ceremony in Suva last Friday. Mr. Kumar, 29, received his Bachelor of Arts in Law, while Ms. Lata, 26, earned her Master of Arts in Education.
Their journey together, having been married for seven years, illustrates their belief in lifelong learning. Mr. Kumar expressed gratitude for his wife’s support, noting, “We both have balanced roles since we both teach at the same school. I can say my wife did most of the household chores to allow me time to study law.”
The couple had to manage the challenges of online education alongside their teaching responsibilities. “It was not easy, especially managing our work life and studying. It was worth the sacrifice,” Mr. Kumar added. Despite numerous obstacles, their determination to excel remained unwavering.
Both Mr. Kumar and Ms. Lata teach English at Seaqaqa Central College. Mr. Kumar shared that he faced criticism for his pursuit of a law degree following his earlier educational achievements, which included a Bachelor of Arts and a Graduate Certificate in Education.
“I graduated in Literature Language and Geography. It was my dream to be a lawyer, but there were no scholarships available at that time, so I chose to pursue an education degree,” he explained. Once he began working, he enrolled in law school, ignoring the negativity surrounding his decision. “Graduating with my law degree has proven that anything can happen if the heart is willing.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Kumar intends to pursue a master’s degree in law, while Ms. Lata plans to move to Dubai to continue her teaching career. Mr. Kumar aspires to become a criminal lawyer.