EVERY small sacrifice made today will lead to great reward tomorrow.
Eliki Qalubau, a dedicated teacher committed to shaping future generations through education, lives by this mantra. It has helped shape the decisions he has made in his young life.
At just 27 years old, Eliki has already invested four rewarding years to the teaching profession and looks forward to what the future holds for his teaching career.
Driven by a deep desire to give back to the community, having once worn a school uniform himself, he approaches his work with unwavering commitment and passion.
Eliki is an only child and hails from Mokani Village in Tailevu.
His teaching path has not been without challenges.
He started his teaching journey in remote schools before relocating to the city.
“I took on the primary school teaching position without any questions asked given that I’m a secondary school graduate,” he said.
As a proud alumnus, Eliki currently teaches at Suva Grammar School. Prior to this, he gained valuable experience teaching in three different primary schools.
His journey in the teaching profession began in 2022, when he received his first posting at Vunimono Sanatan Primary School. A year later, he continued to build his experience at Toga District School.
In 2024, he took a significant step forward, transitioning into secondary with his first posting as a high school teacher at Vaturova Koroalau High School, a school nestled in the province of Cakaudrove.
“Having to settle into an interior school whereby there was no lights nor network connectivity – I had to adapt and fit in, in order to survive but it was all worth the sacrifice”
Eliki says the challenges of graduating as a secondary school teacher only to teach at primary school level, required him to acquire an entirely new set of skills.
This experience, while demanding, only deepened his commitment to education.
“I was able to overcome the challenges with all the assistance provided by the teachers I met along the way.”
“This journey has actually made me have the best of both worlds – primary and secondary school education.”
One of the difficulties faced while on rural posting was the separation from his family, particularly his mother.
He attributes his drive and ambition to his mother, crediting her unwavering support throughout his journey. He acknowledges that without her encouragement and guidance, he would not be the dedicated, passionate, and career-driven individual he is today.
“My mother has been my biggest supporter, and without her I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am blessed because she shows up for me no matter what.”
Teaching full time is no easy task, but for Eliki, it’s only part of the story.
By day, he shapes young minds in the classroom, and by night he’s hitting the books himself.
In addition to his bachelor’s degree in secondary education, Eliki has completed a postgraduate diploma in international relations and diplomacy and is currently working towards a second postgraduate diploma in education.
His story is one of passion, perseverance, and a testament to the belief that learning never truly never stops.
Through continuous learning and dedication, he strives to make a meaningful impact on the lives of his students and the wider community.
“Teaching is more than a profession; it’s a commitment to shaping future generations. I am inspired everyday by my students and motivation by the support of my family, especially my mother.”
“Those small sacrifices don’t go unnoticed; they add up, and one day you’ll reap the rewards, so keep hustling. I believe that with passion and perseverance, we can overcome any challenge.”
