Rusaqoli from Cikobia Graduates in with Postgrade Diploma of Midwifery
Sitiveni Rusaqoli is said to be the first male from Cikobia Island in Macuata Province to graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma of Midwifery. He attained his qualification from the Sangam College of Nursing and Health Care Education in Labasa.
The 33-year-old of Vuninuku Village is a nurse working in the labour ward at Labasa Hospital.
The youngest of seven siblings has been in the nursing profession for nine years.
He was among the 21 students, including three male nurses, who received their certificates on Friday.
“I have come across a few cases where I had to deliver pregnant women (those unforeseen circumstances where women do not go to the major hospital when they were referred for labour and delivery) alone in my years of being a district nurse,” Mr Rusaqoli said.
“I want to be someone whom patients can trust. “Therefore, I am going to keep advancing my knowledge and skills in order to meet my patients’ needs and expectations with regards to midwifery care.”
He is now pursuing a Professional Diploma in Business Management at University of the South Pacific.
He has also served his island while working at Cikobia Nursing Station.
“Nursing is a noble profession and being a male doesn’t stop us from pursuing different fields of work such as being a midwife,” he said.
“What matters is our passion to serve those who need treatment and care.
“I would like to thank the almighty God for his never-ending love blessings and my parents Diwaqa Lakolako and the late Sitiveni Lakolako, for always believing in me.
“Without their struggle, I would not have been who I am today.”
He only wished his father was alive to witness and celebrate his achievements. Edited by Ranoba Baoa