Epi Dokonivalu has proven that distance is no obstacle to academic achievement, thanks to the Fiji National University’s (FNU) flexible learning mode.

Despite residing in the United States of America (USA), he successfully graduates with a Master of Commerce majoring in Entrepreneurship and Management (Thesis), showcasing resilience, discipline, and unwavering dedication.

Dokonivalu’s academic journey began in 2019, when he was still in Fiji, after completing his Postgraduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Management.

“It was a personal and professional commitment to grow further and take on new challenges,” he recalled.

During this period, he was working at the iTaukei Affairs Board, engaging with villages across the provinces he served.

“This experience taught me to balance work and studies while understanding real community challenges,” he said.

When Dokonivalu moved to the USA to pursue further personal and professional growth, many wondered if he could continue his studies remotely.

Fortunately, FNU’s flexible learning mode proved to be a game-changer.

“FNU’s flexible learning mode was highly effective, allowing me to study remotely while in the US. It taught me time management, self-discipline, and independence, showing that students can succeed academically regardless of location,” he explained.

“I’ve always valued hard work, humility, and perseverance. Balancing work, family, and studies has shaped me into someone resilient and committed to lifelong learning. Today, I am based in the United States, applying the lessons from my academic journey. Every step reminds me that with faith, discipline, and dedication, any dream is achievable,” he added.

Dokonivalu’s thesis focused on “Factors Affecting Startups and the Management of Ongoing Businesses in Rural Villages.”

His work was deeply rooted in his experience with the iTaukei Affairs Board, where he worked closely with communities across all 14 provinces.

“Guided by the five pillars of Good Governance, Wellbeing, Economic Empowerment, Conservation and Climate Change, and Vanua Empowerment,” he reflected, “I have always been deeply passionate about iTaukei wellbeing and economic empowerment, and I was struck by a recurring challenge: despite having valuable resources like land and qoliqoli, many communities struggled to build sustainable businesses and create lasting economic opportunities.”

This challenge motivated him to investigate the root causes behind these issues.

“My research explored the barriers to starting and managing businesses in rural areas and aimed to identify strategies that could empower communities to thrive economically,” he explained.

“For me, this topic was more than an academic exercise—it was a mission. I wanted to create knowledge that could inspire real change, helping iTaukei communities unlock their full potential and build prosperous futures.”

Though pursuing his Master’s miles away from Fiji was no easy feat, Dokonivalu describes his achievement as a moment of immense pride.

“Balancing work, family, and studies, especially after moving to the US in 2022, tested my resilience and discipline. Every obstacle became an opportunity to grow, and it strengthened my determination and perspective,” he said.

“Balancing responsibilities, adapting to a new country, and conducting research were my biggest challenges. I overcame them with discipline, clear goals, and support from mentors, colleagues, and family. These challenges became stepping stones that built my resilience and confidence.”

The FNU graduation ceremony will be held from 9 to 11 December at Vodafone Arena in Suva. Unfortunately, Dokonivalu will not attend due to work commitments. Nevertheless, he considers this achievement a vital milestone in his life.

“This achievement is a steppingstone towards future growth and opportunities. I am deeply grateful to my family and wife, my former employer the iTaukei Affairs Board, I also want to acknowledge and thank Assistant Professor Dr Shalendra Kumar for his guidance, expertise, and encouragement throughout my academic journey. All that I have accomplished is not by my strength alone, but through the boundless mercy and guidance of my Almighty God,” he concluded.

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