Taveuni’s Harshita Lal shines at USP graduation with two gold medals and top award in Physics

It was a moment of pride and emotion for 23-year-old Harshita Lal from Taveuni, as she walked away with two gold medals and multiple academic awards at the University of the South Pacific graduation, celebrating her journey of resilience, faith, and determination.

Lal, who is from Matei, Taveuni, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Mathematics and Physics, along with a Graduate Certificate in Education.

She also received certificates for being the Most Outstanding Graduate in Physics and the Best Female Graduate.

Lal says she achieved them through the power of motivation, faith and support of her family and close friends.

The 23-year-old always dreamed of receiving a gold medal in Physics but believes that God had other plans.

When asked about the challenges, Lal says when she started her Bachelor's degree in 2021, just seven weeks later, she had to complete her studies from home due to the COVID-19 lockdown."

When asked about balancing academics with extracurricular activities, Lal says she always prioritised activities and many times, she was running against deadlines.

Lal further says she has submitted assignments 43 seconds before the dropbox closed.

The 23-year-old says the gold medals stand as a testament of hard work and dedication and is something she could give to her parents.

Lal is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Physics at USP under a sponsorship.

She is a proud alumna of Taveuni Sanatan Primary School and Niusawa Methodist High School.