A teaching couple, Shalvin Kumar and Sheema Lata, celebrated a significant milestone at the University of the South Pacific graduation ceremony held in Suva last Friday. Mr. Kumar, 29, earned his Bachelor of Arts in Law, while Ms. Lata, 26, received her Master of Arts in Education.
Their seven years of marriage have highlighted the value of lifelong learning and mutual support in achieving their goals. “Both of us have balanced roles since we teach at the same school. I can say my wife handled most of the household responsibilities, allowing me time to focus on my law studies,” remarked Mr. Kumar.
The couple tackled numerous challenges during their studies, which were conducted online. Despite the difficulties of juggling work and education, they felt their sacrifices were worthwhile. Mr. Kumar and Ms. Lata both teach English at Seaqaqa Central College.
Mr. Kumar faced skepticism regarding his decision to pursue law studies after previously earning a Bachelor of Arts and a Graduate Certificate in Education. “There was a lot of negative feedback about shifting my focus to law at this stage,” he explained. His initial degree focused on Literature, Language, and Geography.
He expressed that becoming a lawyer had always been his dream, but a lack of scholarships at the time led him to pursue education. “Once I started working, I enrolled in law studies. Despite the criticism about my career shift, I followed my passion, and graduating with my law degree has shown that with determination, anything is possible.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Kumar intends to pursue a master’s degree in law, while Ms. Lata plans to relocate to Dubai to continue her teaching career. Mr. Kumar aspires to become a criminal lawyer.