The Matua Programme at Nabua Secondary School, located just outside Suva, is making a remarkable impact on the lives of its participants. This initiative primarily targets young individuals, many of whom are school dropouts unable to finish their high school education due to various personal circumstances. The program provides these students with a valuable opportunity to restart their educational journey, effectively giving them a fresh start in life.
Nabua Secondary School stands out as the only institution in Fiji offering this unique incentive. Over the past twenty years, it has facilitated the education of hundreds of adult learners who have completed their secondary studies and moved on to pursue higher education.
Recently, the program celebrated the graduation of over 42 students. One of the graduates, Lusiana Turaga, expressed how the initiative inspired her to chase her educational aspirations. She shared that participating in the program not only reignited her hopes but also exposed her to a vibrant mix of individuals from various backgrounds—an enriching experience in itself.
Ms. Turaga emphasized the importance of the program in fostering social inclusion for older individuals. By recognizing their contributions to society, the Matua Programme ensures that they are not marginalized, allowing them to stay engaged within their communities and enhancing their overall social well-being.
Furthermore, she highlighted how the program contributes to financial stability and provides access to essential services that improve quality of life, enabling graduates to live with dignity and comfort as they advance in their lives. The overarching goal shared by students in the program is to become better versions of themselves.
This initiative’s emphasis on personal growth and societal contribution offers a hopeful narrative, showing how education can transform lives and strengthen communities. By providing a pathway for those who need it most, the Matua Programme in Nabua Secondary School is not only changing individual lives but is also fostering a culture of resilience and support within the community.
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