University of the South Pacific graduate Josevata Kunagado has exemplified the spirit of perseverance and dedication through his educational journey. Hailing from Vatubalavu, Noikoro in the interior of Nadroga Navosa, Kunagado expressed immense gratitude upon receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Management during the graduation ceremony held at the Vodafone Arena.
Kunagado’s educational path began in 2019 after receiving assistance from the Tertiary Scholarship & Loans Service. His dedication to his studies faced challenges, particularly the difficulty of adapting to a new environment while being away from home. After completing his first year, he decided to return home in 2020 to support his parents in farming, reigniting a desire for education after realizing he wanted to honor their sacrifices.
His parents, Josua Valamalua and Waita Dimasa, worked tirelessly in agriculture to provide for Kunagado and his siblings, instilling in him the importance of hard work. Kunagado’s mother remarked how the success of her son reflects the sacrifices they made as farmers. “For my son to achieve this, is worth all the hard work and sacrifice we have put in. Without it, he wouldn’t have achieved his degree,” she said.
Mr. Kunagado’s testimony resonates with many similar narratives out of the region, particularly that of Lafaele Tominiko, who graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce under similarly challenging circumstances. Tominiko’s journey highlighted the profound effects of familial support in overcoming hardship, underscoring the notion that community and family often play critical roles in education.
The triumphs of these graduates echo a larger story of resilience, showcasing that despite obstacles, unwavering support from family and community can ignite the determination necessary to achieve educational milestones. Kunagado and Tominiko’s paths serve as motivational examples for other young individuals navigating their educational journeys.
Such stories should inspire hope in students facing struggles, illustrating that with dedication and support, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams against all odds.
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