Manoa Nadakua Nawai at FNU’s Nasinu Campus.
The apprenticeship scheme at the Fiji National University (FNU) is unlocking opportunities for young Fijians to pursue careers beyond their expectations.
For 23-year-old Manoa Nadakua Nawai, the programme became the stepping stone to an international academic journey.
Mr Nawai began his training at FNU’s Derrick Campus, where he undertook a Certificate IV in Electrical while working as an apprentice with Aquaheat South Pacific Limited. The dual commitment of study and full-time work, he said, was challenging but rewarding.
“It wasn’t easy balancing work and study, but it taught me discipline, patience, and the value of hard work,” he said.
Originally from Sarava Settlement in Mataso, Nakorotubu, Ra, with strong ties to Narikoso and Bucalevu villages, Mr Nawai credits his upbringing for shaping his determination.
“I come from a humble family who taught me that even if you start with very little, you can still build a meaningful life,” he said.
While completing his apprenticeship, Mr Nawai quietly pursued a long-held dream of studying overseas. His persistence paid off when he secured the Australian Awards Scholarship.
Manoa Nadakua Nawai at the University of Newcastle in Australia
“I applied for every scholarship I could find because I didn’t have the financial means,” he said. “When this opportunity came, it felt unreal.”
He is now studying at the University of Newcastle in Sydney, undertaking a Bachelor of Construction Management (Building).
Mr Nawai said transitioning from Fiji’s education system to Australia’s fast-paced and independent learning environment was initially overwhelming.
“The expectations are higher, and you have to manage everything on your own,” he said.
However, he credits FNU for providing a strong foundation that helped him adapt.
“FNU taught me discipline, respect, and the importance of showing up every day. Those values helped me adjust,” he said.
The hands-on experience gained during his apprenticeship also proved valuable, allowing him to connect classroom theory with real-world practice in his current studies.
Outside academics, Mr Nawai has embraced student life, joining a campus DJ club and attending industry workshops to build his skills and network.
Despite the opportunities, he admits being away from his wife, Hannah Vukialau, and their one-year-old daughter has been one of the biggest challenges.
“They are my biggest motivation. Everything I do now is for my family,” he said.
Mr Nawai plans to gain industry experience before eventually establishing his own construction business. He also hopes to return to Fiji to contribute to development and create opportunities for others.
“I want to bring back what I’ve learned and help raise standards so more young people can succeed,” he said.
He encouraged students to make the most of opportunities available through FNU.
“Believe in yourself, stay consistent, and remember why you started.”
