Naren Prasad grew up amidst the rice fields of Vunicagi, Dreketi, nurturing dreams of leaving his rural home to explore the world. His uneducated parents, humble farmers, encouraged his studies despite the hardships he faced, such as walking 12 kilometers barefoot on muddy roads to attend Dreketi Indian School. Reflecting on those challenges, Mr. Prasad believes they equipped him for future success.
Today, Mr. Prasad serves as the head of education and training in the International Labour Organisation’s research department in Geneva, Switzerland. His journey from a life of struggle is remarkable; his father worked tirelessly in rice and cane farming to provide for the family, while his mother took care of their four children.
As a student, Mr. Prasad relied on excelling in his subjects to secure scholarships, and every $50 was significant back then. Joining Dreketi High School marked a turning point when his father bought him a bicycle, eliminating the long walks to school. He studied accounting and later secured a scholarship for foundation studies in social science.
In 1988, Mr. Prasad earned another scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in economics and accounting. A pivotal moment came when a friend, lacking a scholarship, encouraged him to apply for a program at the French Embassy, which he initially dismissed. Despite his hesitations, he filled out the application and surprisingly was selected for a scholarship to study mathematics in France, where he had to first learn French.
During his youth in France, he embraced new experiences and described them as some of the most fulfilling moments of his life. He completed an undergraduate degree in applied mathematics in Bordeaux, followed by a postgraduate degree in applied social science and a PhD in economics.
By 26, Mr. Prasad had interned at UNESCO, launching his career in the United Nations, where he worked in various agencies, including the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development and the ILO. His career has taken him across more than 60 countries.
His journey is rooted in hard work, determination, and staying true to his values. Mr. Prasad emphasizes the importance of remembering one’s origins, as he often visits Dreketi to spend time with family. His success makes his parents and village proud, as they share news of his achievements.
When back home, he cherishes time with loved ones, enjoying traditional kava, homemade roti and curry, and fishing. Mr. Prasad attributes his accomplishments to education and a supportive family structure, recognizing the sacrifices made by many to ensure the success of future generations.
He encourages others to believe in themselves, work hard, and not to shortcut their efforts, as success follows perseverance. Moreover, he advises that failure should inspire resilience rather than deter individuals from trying again.