At just 20-years-old, Shabeer Shain Ali’s journey at the Fiji National University (FNU) is a powerful reminder that setbacks do not define one’s future—determination does.
Ali began his academic journey in February 2023 at FNU’s College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) based at the Koronivia Campus. Like many first-year students adjusting to a new environment, he admits that he lost focus early on.
“As a first-year student, I lacked discipline. I spent too much time socialising, missed lectures without valid reasons, and struggled academically because I did not yet have the necessary skills, such as using Moodle or preparing presentations effectively,” he reflected.
After completing only his first semester, Ali recognised that he was heading in the wrong direction. Rather than continuing down that path, he made the crucial decision to step away from his studies. From July 2023 to July 2024, he took an official break—one that would ultimately transform his outlook on life.
During this period, Ali invested in self-improvement. He enrolled in extra classes in Nabua to strengthen his computer literacy and presentation skills. However, it was a deeply personal loss that became a turning point.
“The passing of my grandfather in October 2023 changed my perspective entirely. It instilled in me a stronger sense of responsibility and purpose,” he shared.
A trip to New Zealand in April 2024 further broadened his horizons, exposing him to new possibilities and reinforcing his desire to succeed. When Ali returned to university in July 2024, he came back with a renewed mindset and a clear sense of direction.
“I made intentional changes. I distanced myself from negative influences, even reducing my social media circle significantly to stay focused on my goals,” he said.
His commitment quickly became evident. Ali immersed himself in his studies, becoming a familiar face in the library and adopting disciplined study habits.
“In the lead-up to exams, I studied late into the night, often until 5.00am. I rewrote my notes repeatedly until I could recall everything from memory. On exam day, I chose to sit right at the front, determined to give my best. Passing those exams through my own effort was incredibly rewarding.”
By 2025, Ali had progressed to the Nasinu Campus, where he successfully completed his Certificate IV in Customs at the College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS). Despite his progress, he remains accountable for his earlier shortcomings.
“I still have five units from my first year that I need to complete to obtain my Certificate III in Agriculture. Instead of avoiding it, I chose to face it head-on,” he explained.
Encouragingly, his growth has not gone unnoticed.
“My Agriculture Coordinator has acknowledged how much I have improved compared to my first year. That recognition motivates me to keep going.”
Currently, Ali is retaking those units while preparing to graduate with his Certificate IV in Customs this May. Looking ahead, he is determined to continue his studies by enrolling in a Diploma in Customs later this year.
His message to fellow students, especially those who may have withdrawn or struggled, is both honest and uplifting.
“Success is built on hard work and the support of those around you. Failure is not the end—it is a lesson. We all make mistakes, but what matters is how we respond. Where I am today is the result of choosing to work harder after a difficult start.”
“Do not be discouraged by those who doubt you or focus on your weaknesses. Use that as motivation to improve. With effort, discipline, and faith, you can turn things around.”
Ali’s story serves as a powerful encouragement to students who may feel disheartened by academic setbacks. Taking time off, reassessing priorities, and returning with renewed focus is not failure—it is growth in action.
ENDS