Salanieta Rawalai’s dedication to uplift the lives of children and youths in Namara District in Tailevu has paid off as she was awarded the Tailevu Provincial Council scholarship to pursue a Diploma in Counselling at the Fiji National University (FNU).
Rawalai, founder of Tubalevu Village Children’s Club, was awarded the Tailevu Provincial Council Scholarship following the FNU Outreach event that was held in the village.
Rawalai shared her journey as the club expanded to include more young people from other villages in the district.
She explained she started the club as a spiritual group and later decided to teach the children academic and practical skills, including baking.
Rawalai says the youngest member is just three years old, and children now feel comfortable and are thriving, especially those in tertiary education.
She emphasised that her studies would complement the work she does with the children’s club.
She says this scholarship means a great deal to her, and she will continue to encourage the children in the club to pursue their dreams and work hard.
While speaking at the outreach event, Dr. Akanisi Kedreyate, a distinguished representative of Tailevu, highlighted the importance of the outreach in ensuring that youth from the region are well-informed about FNU and its offerings.
She says this outreach provides an opportunity for the youth to reflect on their future.
Kedreyate says Namara district is the starting point, and they aim to reach every district within Tailevu.
She says they expect to see positive outcomes following this outreach.
She adds it is now up to young people to consider their future and that of their families.
She also stressed the need for Namara district to prioritise education, encouraging the youth to aim higher and pursue self-employment.
Kedreyate says Tailevu needs educated individuals who can contribute to the development of their communities and advises the youths that they should never be satisfied with what they have and always strive for more.
Dr. Kedreyate also urged the youth of Namara to remain grounded in their roots while focusing on personal and academic growth.
