At 45 years old, Sereana Korovulavula exemplifies the belief that it is never too late to pursue formal education. She is currently studying alongside her peers in the Matua Programme at Nabua Secondary School. Recently, Ms. Korovulavula was one of the 9,088 Year 13 students who sat for their external examinations nationwide.
Despite the challenges posed by her age, Ms. Korovulavula credits her family as her primary motivation in her academic journey. “It has never been easy, but I know it will be worth it,” she stated. After joining the Matua programme last year, she successfully completed Year 12 and is optimistic about finishing Year 13 this year.
Originally from Nabudrau Village in Rewa, Ms. Korovulavula is a mother of six children. Currently unemployed, she cares for her youngest child, who is three, while balancing her studies. Her family relocated to Suva after the initial wave of COVID-19 to support her husband in his job search. He was eventually employed as a mechanic, providing financial stability for the family.
“My husband is the sole breadwinner, and we all aim to create a better life for our children,” she explained.
Upon completing the Matua programme, Ms. Korovulavula hopes to enter the workforce to assist her husband and support their children. She feels capable of achieving her goals, citing her proficiency in English and computer skills along with her commendable exam results as evidence of her abilities.
Despite facing financial challenges, such as the costs of commuting and living expenses covered by her husband, she has received support from her eldest son, a flight attendant, to help her finance her examinations.
“My children have been my biggest inspiration throughout my academic journey,” she said. Although financial difficulties sometimes prevent her from meeting her children’s needs, these challenges motivate her to work harder for their future.
Ms. Korovulavula plans to pursue courses in human resources and finance at the university level. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to improve herself through the Matua programme and encourages others who have left school to consider re-enrolling. She appreciates the commitment of the dedicated teachers who strive to educate their students, especially Mr. Lingham, her English teacher, for his consistent support.
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