Two students from John Wesley College in Fiji experienced an unexpected start to their academic year by arriving a day early. Cousins Bale Jione, 16, and Taufa Senikau, 14, set off from their home in Navua at 5 AM, only to discover that classes officially commence today. Rather than let this mix-up dampen their spirits, they opted to assist their grandfather, Motu Buladaulako, in selling produce at the Suva Market.
The cousins, who will be traveling from Navua to Raiwaqa for school, are also in the process of resolving an issue with their bus cards. Bale shared that their names are not yet in the bus card system, an oversight from their recent move to Navua, as they previously lived within walking distance of the school. They expressed hope that this situation would be remedied soon, as they rely on public transport for their daily commutes.
Motu Buladaulako, 82, has been a steadfast guardian for Bale since her primary school days, while Taufa resides with her parents. He has been vending for two years and uses the income to support Bale and his family. He highlighted the significant impact of the Fijian Government’s back-to-school assistance program, which offers vital support to families during this transition.
Mr. Buladaulako praised the government for its efforts, expressing his hope for a quick resolution to their bus card issue, emphasizing the importance of parental responsibility alongside the assistance provided. Despite the hiccup of arriving early, the cousins remain optimistic and excited about the school year ahead.
This heartwarming story showcases resilience and resourcefulness in the face of unexpected challenges, reminding us of the importance of family support in education. As the academic year begins, Bale and Taufa are set to embark on their educational journey with determination, embodying the spirit of perseverance and hope that is essential for success.
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