Raluve Tubuna Tadu Varuru emerged as a remarkable highlight at the graduation ceremony of the TISI Sangam College of Nursing and Health Care Education, held yesterday. At just 25 years old and hailing from Nasinu Village, Navatu, Cakaudrove, she made history by being the only Bachelor of Nursing Science graduate to garner five prestigious awards.
Overcome with emotion at the ceremony at Labasa’s Civic Centre, Ms. Varuru dedicated her accomplishments to her late grandmother and mentor, Latileta Lakai. “My grandmother raised me since childhood and always wished to see us, the twin sisters, graduate,” expressed Ms. Varuru, with tears in her eyes.
Recognized for her outstanding performance, Ms. Varuru received numerous accolades, including those for Academic Excellence in Nursing Knowledge and Mental Health, Nursing Practice, Population Health, Personal Professional Development and Research, along with Overall Academic Excellence.
Her journey into the field of nursing began after completing a Bachelor of Dietetics and Nutrition at Fiji National University in 2020. Realizing a deeper desire to care for the sick beyond an office setting, she decided to pursue further education to become a nurse.
“I believe that if we have a dream and passion to do something productive, we should go for it,” she commented. Ms. Varuru also credited her love for reading as a key factor in her success, stating, “This hobby is my biggest secret to success.”
Her parents, Titilia Leba, a preschool teacher, and Peter Earley, a caretaker in Cakaudrove, expressed immense pride in their daughter’s resilience and determination. “We are proud and blessed to have a daughter like Varuru who never gives up,” they remarked.
Ms. Varuru’s achievements not only honor her grandmother’s dreams but also serve as an inspiring example for aspiring nurses throughout Fiji. Her story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and support from loved ones, one can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
This graduation ceremony not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also reinforces the importance of family and community support in education. In a time when healthcare professionals are highly valued, Ms. Varuru’s dedication sets a hopeful precedent for future generations in the nursing field.
Leave a comment