Teaching couple Shalvin Kumar and Sheema Lata celebrated a significant milestone at the University of the South Pacific graduation in Suva last Friday. Mr. Kumar, 29, earned his Bachelor of Arts in Law, while Ms. Lata, 26, received a Master of Arts in Education.
The couple, who have been married for seven years and have pursued their educational goals together, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning. “We both have balanced roles as we teach at the same school. My wife took on most of the household responsibilities to give me time to focus on my law studies,” Mr. Kumar noted.
Both educators shared their experiences of studying online, which presented challenges as they juggled their work commitments and academic pursuits. However, they felt their efforts were worthwhile.
Mr. Kumar and Ms. Lata teach English at Seaqaqa Central College. Mr. Kumar faced criticism for his decision to study law after already holding a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and a Graduate Certificate in Education. “I received a lot of negative feedback for pursuing another field at this stage in my life,” he said. His earlier degree had a focus on Literature, Language, and Geography.
He explained that his aspiration to become a lawyer was a long-held dream. Initially, he chose education due to a lack of scholarships for law studies at the time. “Once I began working as a teacher, I enrolled in law courses despite the criticism. Graduating has proven that anything is possible when you are determined,” he expressed.
Mr. Kumar intends to continue his education by pursuing a master’s degree in law, while Ms. Lata plans to teach in Dubai. Mr. Kumar aspires to become a criminal lawyer.