Sefeti Jiuta, a remarkable 23-year-old, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in his family to graduate from university. Growing up in Nadonumai settlement near Lami, Jiuta faced a challenging environment where hard work was vital, as both of his parents, though not formally educated, strived to provide for him and his three older siblings.
Reflecting on his educational path, Jiuta attended several different schools, including Suva Methodist Primary, Dudley Intermediate, and Dudley High School, before completing his secondary education at Lelean Memorial School. Despite his modest academic performance, which never earned him accolades, Jiuta’s tenacity led him to the University of the South Pacific (USP) where he graduated, marking a significant family achievement since none of his siblings completed their tertiary education.
Tragedy struck when Jiuta’s father passed away during his time in Japan participating in the JENESYS program at just 21 years old. Despite the grief, he channeled his emotions positively, continued his education, and learned about the MEXT scholarship, which he successfully applied for through research on social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Recently, Jiuta received an official offer for a Master’s degree program in Japan, a development he marks as a “huge blessing,” especially after graduating when he was uncertain about his next steps. He encourages the younger generation to pursue their dreams regardless of their doubts, emphasizing the transformational experience of higher education.
This journey of Jiuta parallels other inspiring narratives of resilience and determination in the region, such as those of Lafaele Tominiko and Joshika Lata, who also overcame substantial difficulties through family support and personal perseverance. These stories serve as motivational examples for young people to overcome their challenges and strive for excellence in education.
Jiuta’s story not only highlights personal triumph but also inspires hope for others facing similar journeys, proving that with dedication and support, one can achieve their dreams.
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