Miriama Dravikula, a dedicated teacher at Delaivula Kindergarten in Nadroga, embodies the spirit of nurturing and education in her vibrant classroom, where laughter and spontaneous moments flourish. Embracing each child’s innocence and trust, she brings a profound love for teaching that is evident in her daily interactions.
As a mother of three, Ms. Dravikula exudes high energy and patience, qualities enhanced by her upbringing as the eldest daughter of a pastor. Constantly moving around due to her parents’ roles as Salvation Army officers, she developed a strong sense of responsibility and adaptability. “I learned to adjust to new communities and challenges,” she shared, reflecting on her childhood.
Her journey into education began unexpectedly at the age of 16 when she took on the role of a Sunday school teacher. Initially motivated by a desire to help others rather than a passion for teaching, it was the encouragement from an aunt that inspired her to become a kindergarten teacher, ultimately shaping her life’s mission.
Now in her ninth year of teaching, Ms. Dravikula has accumulated invaluable experience, having transitioned from five years in a private school to working with the Ministry of Education in 2021. She chose to focus her efforts on rural communities, driven by a strong desire to connect with children outside urban areas.
Teaching young children presents its share of challenges and rewards. “Every day is different, filled with excitement and sometimes heartache,” she noted, recognizing the diverse backgrounds of her students. She differentiates between rural and urban classrooms, observing that rural children often exhibit deep respect and a strong eagerness to learn compared to their more assertive urban counterparts, influenced by digital culture.
One of the challenges Ms. Dravikula faces is adapting to the Nadroga dialect as she strives for effective communication with her students who speak their local language. Yet, she considers teaching a calling. “Watching children grow from not knowing how to hold a pen to writing their names is a significant victory for us teachers,” she remarked, highlighting the progression of her students.
Throughout her teaching journey, Ms. Dravikula has learned vital lessons from her students about kindness, patience, and the importance of taking life one step at a time. Her faith plays a crucial role during challenging moments as she motivates herself with the thought, “If you won’t do it, then who will?” Emphasizing the importance of her work, she envisions her students as future contributors to their families and communities, showcasing the significant impact that educators can have on society.
In a world that continually evolves, educators like Ms. Dravikula remind us of the enduring power of compassion and the lasting influence that dedicated teaching can have on young lives, inspiring hope for the future.