Early back-to-school shopper mother perceives education as family top priority
Asilika Evans, a mother of two from Korolevu in Seaqaqa, has always prioritised education of her children above all other family commitments and expenses.
Recently she took time out from her work to carry out her back-to-school shopping for her nine-year-old daughter, Hope Ligalevu.
Ms Evans is employed at the Fresh and Tea Coffee Restaurant at the Seaqaqa Satellite Township.
The 36-year-old buys all school resources a few weeks before the new school term begins.
The 2023 academic year is scheduled to begin on February 6 for primary and secondary schools.
“I decided to shop early since I had enough cash saved up for the shopping,” she said.
Ms Evans said she also wanted to avoid the rush and congested shopping space as parents flocked to Labasa Town with days nearing the school opening.
Hope is a student of Seaqaqa Primary School in Year 4. Ms Evans was of the mindset to invest in her children’s education because education had a lot of benefits in ensuring her child secured a good job to support them in their elderly years.
Ms Evans thanked Government’s decision to revert to the three-term school period.
She said children were accustomed to this format of study and also would have enough time to rest and reboot each time.
“Opening of school next month has also given some parents hope to send their children to school with all necessary school resources”.
Ms Evans said with a majority of parents resorting to farming as the sole income earner, they needed time to save and spend for their children in their educational upbringing.