THIRTY-THREE-year-old father of three Simione Ravia Jr has rewritten his future by returning to education after a decade.
Earlier this week, he graduated from Pacific Polytech’s Nausori campus with a National Certificate in Automotive Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Level 3).
He described his achievement as one earned through sacrifice rather than ease.
“I left studying 10 years ago, but thankfully the TELS scheme allowed me to complete my education,” he said.
“If the Pacific Polytech team hadn’t come to my village in Naitasiri and persuaded me, I don’t think I would have taken this step.”
Balancing study with family responsibilities was his greatest challenge.
“The hardest part was trying to provide for my family while studying.
“There were moments I questioned myself if I was doing the right thing.”
His turning point came from home — his family took on farm work so he could focus on his studies.
“My family stood by me. That support kept me going.”
Mr Ravia said vocational education changed his view of success.
“It’s not much about writing, but about skills development and understanding. Your skills matter most.”
He encouraged stay-at-home fathers to seize similar opportunities.
“Build your skills and your future. One day you’ll be older, with a family depending on you.”
Graduating alongside three siblings, he called the milestone a symbol of hope, unity, and a better future built through trade skills.
