Shivani scooped Geospatial Science Gold Medal
Shayal Shivani has made her family proud. The Labasa lass scooped the gold medal for the most outstanding Bachelor of Geospatial Science graduate.
The 23-year-old was among the 66 recipients of the University of the South Pacific’s medal and prize ceremony in Suva last Thursday night.
Ms Shivani, originally from Valebasoga, Labasa, completed her three-year-course while being a hostel student at the university. The award wasn’t a surprise for the former dux of Labasa College and Nagigi Primary School because she confidently worked hard for it.
“My only aim was to study hard during late nights and make my parents proud, especially being away from home,” Ms Shivani said. “There were about 100 students in my batch and nothing stood in my way as I have an articulated mind and I love mapping.”
Ms Shivani is the only child of Mukesh Chand, 55, a teacher of Qawa Primary School, and Sunil Lata, 48, a former graphic designer. She is currently doing her Masters in Geospatial Science.
Mr Chand said his daughter’s achievement was the greatest gift before he retires in December. “I am a proud father to have a daughter who faithfully completed her studies away from home,” Mr
Chand said.
Mrs Lata said her daughter had 18 cousins and they have been her motivation.
“I am very happy for her because she is the first in the family to receive a gold medal for her studies,” Mrs Lata said.
“We were eagerly waiting to see her graduation in March, but due to COVID-19 it was shifted to last week.”
Ms Shivani wishes to advise female secondary school students and those pursuing tertiary education to aim for graduation.
“Times are hard and I feel it is important for females to get education so that they can help themselves, their families and the nation as a whole,” she said.
“I thank my families, friends and geography teacher, Mosese Lekenauwa, at Labasa College for their contribution to my success.”