FOR Rosalia Roqica, graduating from Fiji National University was more than earning a qualification—it was the fulfilment of a promise made 14 years ago.
Raised by a single mother after the loss of her father, Benedito Roqica, Rosalia faced years of hardship on her journey through school and into tertiary study.
Originally from Savusavu in Cakaudrove, she recently graduated with a Certificate in Information Technology (Level 4) from FNU’s College of Engineering, Technical, Vocational Education and Training.
Although the programme was designed to take a year, financial struggles meant it took Rosalia several years to complete. Paying school fees was one of the biggest challenges for her family, but she said the moment of finally graduating made every sacrifice worthwhile.
“I know my father would have been proud of this moment,” she said.
Rosalia said her achievement also belonged to her mother who carried the responsibility of raising her from primary school to university, and to God, whom she credits for giving her family the strength to keep going.
Her story was one of many celebrated during FNU’s three-day graduation ceremony in Suva, where 991 women graduated—a milestone that now includes Rosalia, whose determination turned loss into hope and pride for her family.
