Priya Maharaj graduates with teaching degree, honours late father’s unfinished dream

For Priya Vandana Maharaj, graduating from the University of the South Pacific is more than just receiving a degree, it is the realisation of a dream that began decades ago with her late father.

While speaking to fijivillage News, the 37-year-old Nadi resident shared that more than 20 years ago, her father had been close to completing a degree in Hindi Language Education from USP before he sadly passed away.

Now, standing proudly with her Bachelor of Education In-Service in Early Childhood Education and Care, she says she has fulfilled the dream her father once held for himself, to become a teacher.

Maharaj says from sleepless nights filled with assignments and energy drinks, to long hours juggling work, home duties, and studies, the road was emotionally and physically exhausting.

She says balancing full-time work with academic demands was no easy feat, especially as a mother.

She adds that she had never left her son since he was born and it was only when he started kindergarten that she began studying — first for her diploma and then her degree.

Maharaj, who is originally from Labasa, says she has spent the past year working at Little Zak’s Academy, a childcare centre in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales, Australia.

She says she is thankful for her husband who not only took care of their son while she was away but also served as her guide and inspiration.

She also expressed her gratitude to her mother and mother-in-law for stepping in to care for her son in her absence, giving her the peace of mind to focus on her studies.

Maharaj says her family in Fiji and abroad also gave her emotional support during the most difficult days.

She also thanked her colleagues at Little Zak’s Academy who sent her words of encouragement and celebrated every milestone.

She is encouraging other mothers and women thinking about returning to education that nothing is impossible, and if she can do it then so can they.