From shoeshine boy to graduating from FNU, Bakani hopes to make a difference in his life

Shoeshine boy and street dweller Simione Bakani who has graduated with a certificate in Domestic Electrical Installation from Fiji National University's free TVET course says he has high hopes of making a difference in his life.

He wants to be a positive contributor in Fiji’s employment field and also be a beacon of light to his street dweller squad.

Bakani says he was approached to enroll in the course while he was on his way to drop off his close friend’s birth certificate to the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection.

He says he is proud to have stumbled over the opportunity as because of this, he is happily walking away with a certificate.

Bakani says they do not get many opportunities while on the streets.

Regardless of their background, he is strongly encouraging others not to give up, and when a door opens, grab the opportunity with both hands.

Bakani hopes the government can help him and the other 150 graduates to get practical jobs and he wants to help his other street brothers and sisters to make a proper living.

Meanwhile, Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro says this is a testimony that every Fijian deserves to have an equal and affordable access to formal education.

He adds people’s economic background should not deter them from dreaming and being given an opportunity to a formal education.