Amelia Kidi (right) and daughter Katalaini Gauna at the Sigatoka roadshow

Amid the bustling atmosphere of the Fiji National University (FNU) Roadshow application drive in Sigatoka, a voice cut through the air, “Praise the Lord!”. These echoed the heartfelt words of Amelia Kidi, a mother overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for a milestone reached.

An emotional Kidi uttered praises to the heavens and thanked the FNU team when her daughter, Katalaini Gauna, was handed her offer letter on the day. Gauna, an aspiring teacher, enrolled in the Bachelor of Education (Primary) programme in the College of Humanities and Education.

“Every question that we had in mind about the programme, was answered by the FNU team,” said Kidi as she wiped away tears of joy.

“We are now leaving here with her offer letter. I am so happy and proud of her.”

“This makes Katalaini the first in our family to pursue a teaching career. I am so happy for her and proud of her for taking the initiative to pursue further education despite the challenges we face.”

Kidi had been silently weaving the fabric of her daughter’s dreams, financing her education through vegetable sales at the Sigatoka market.

She would spend $60 a day on travelling expenses to travel from Vunatovau village in Nokonoko, Nadroga to sell vegetable produce at the Sigatoka market to support her family and her children’s education.

Through the toil of a market vendor’s hands, Gauna can pursue a career in teaching at FNU.  Gauna will soon embark on a journey that will see her become the first teacher in their family.

“My labour as a market vendor is even more meaningful seeing it benefit my children. I am optimistic that three years from now, we will commemorate another milestone as Katalaini completes her programme.”

FNU is conducting its final roadshow at the following venues;

February 1 – 3; Nausori (Max Val-U Carpark), Navua (Shop N Save supermarket), Sigatoka (Wishing Well), Ba (Bus Stand), Tavua (Max Val-U), Rakiraki (Old Market) & Nadi (FNPF Plaza)

February 1; Labasa CJ Mall

February 2; Seaqaqa town

February 3; Lautoka (Tappoo City) & Savusavu town

Apply Now

Interested students can apply now for Semester 1, 2024 studies via the FNU website at https://www.fnu.ac.fj/student/ or by email at admission@fnu.ac.fj

For further information or queries, students can also text (toll-free) to 857 for Vodafone and Inkk users.