Forty-seven women graduated with Certificates in Cooking and Sewing from the Makoi Women’s Vocational Training Centre yesterday.
Speaking at the event, New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner, Michelle Podmore said education was key to women fulfilling their potential and reaching their aspirations.
“For many women, balancing commitments to your own families, community, and career is not easy,” she said.
“I hope it will empower you to obtain employment or start your own business.
Centre manager, Shazna Khan said many women had only reached primary school education and some travelled as far as Tailevu and Naitasiri to be educated at the institution.
“These women are a testament of resilience, efficiency and adaptation and they were able to overcome these challenges,” she said.
Among the graduates was Amelia Lewatu of Sikituru Village in Nadi.
She said her plan now was to set up a business or finding a new job.
“A favourite phase from my grandmother, she would tell me that education ends when you lay your hands on your chest,” she said.
“It is never too late and you still have the time to support your family.”
Ms Lewatu was a recipient of the best student award.
