Age has proven to be no barrier for 45-year-old Pauliasi Balawa, who graduated with a Certificate III in IT Software Application from Pacific Polytech, following a career change after 19 years in the hospitality industry.

Determined to create new opportunities for himself and his community, Balawa made the bold decision to return to the classroom and pursue studies in information technology.

”I never felt embarassed studying along younger classmates but I remain focused on my long term goal of bringing technology and digital innovation closer to people in his community.” he said.

His motivation stemmed from the lack of access to basic digital services in his village of Nadoria in Dreketi, Rewa, where residents often have to wait for tertiary students to return home during school holidays to type letters, complete online applications, or access other digital services.

His journey was not without challenges.

Balawa faced financial hardships that tested his determination throughout his studies, particularly during the second term when his Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS) allowance was delayed.

Despite these challenges, he went above and beyond to assist teachers with hospitality classess, helping to ease the workload caused by a shortage of teaching staff due to limited funding.

Balawa’s inspiring journey shows that with determination, resilience and a willingness to embrace lifelong learning, age is never a barrier to achieving new dreams and creating lasting change in the wider community.

BY: LITIA RABUA