(from left) Fiji National University, Head of School Mechanical Joji Marau presents offer letter to Ratu Epeli Bulivou during the FNU Roadshow in Navua on Thursday, 23 January 2025.

SUVA, FIJI– Ratu Epeli Bulivou’s journey to the Fiji National University (FNU) is one of hope and determination.

Hailing from the remote Rukua village on the beautiful firewalking island of Beqa, Bulivou faced many challenges to pursue his dream of becoming an electrical engineer.

On Thursday, 23rd January, Bulivou made a 45-minute boat trip to meet the FNU Roadshow team at the Shop N Save Complex in Navua.

His efforts paid off when he received an instant offer letter to pursue Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) with Honours at the College of Engineering Technical Vocational Education and Training (CETVET).

“It’s my father’s dream that I become an electrical engineer,” Bulivou said, his eyes shining with ambition.

“I have seen my father struggle with farming and fishing to meet our family’s needs.”

“This motivated a spark in me to make sure that I get enrolled in this course so that I can financially support my family in the coming years.”

As the first of his five siblings to attend university, the 19-year-old is motivated to make a difference.

“My siblings are small, and I also want to lead by example for them,” he said.

“I’m really happy to receive my offer letter today and the credit goes to my father and my school for always supporting and guiding me.”

“Since my school days, it was a personal dream for me to access higher education and I’m thankful to the FNU team for reaching out to us with opportunities.”

The former Beqa Yanuca Secondary School student’s village has never had an electrical power supply, and this lack of power fuels his passion for electrical engineering.

“On our island, we only rely on solar energy,” he said.

“It’s been really difficult to study, especially knowing that we have to either light candles or rely on solar energy at night.”

“My aim is to utilise the electrical engineering course at FNU so that I am able to help my village with power supply in the future.”

With dreams of returning to his community as an engineer, Bulivou’s story shines a light on the power of education and determination, inspiring hopes for a brighter future.

“I understand that University life would be challenging but I am determined to do my best and make my family proud,” he added.

The 2025 Fiji National University Roadshow is ongoing around the country and students are encouraged to Enrol for Semester 1, 2025 before 14th February.

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