BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
A young student taking up a bachelor’s degree studies in fisheries under the department of fisheries studies at the Solomon Islands National University has praised the opportunity to broaden her knowledge in the fisheries sector.
Miriam Arzienta Sulu is one of the final year students at the Solomon Islands National University’s (SINU) faculty of Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries and has told SOLOMON WOMEN how she is enjoying the academic opportunity.
The 25-year-old from the province of Malaita and Central Islands is now encouraging other students, who wish to study fisheries that it’s an opportunity not to be missed but to explore it now and in the future.
Before joining SINU’s department of fisheries studies in 2018 (until now), Miriam recalled her fondness for ocean life and marine organisms since childhood.
She said that fisheries are not just about the biology of marine organisms but rather a very broad topic that covers both freshwater and oceans.
“Looking back from the past 3 to 4 years at SINU, I realised that I have experienced and learned a lot of interesting things in terms of aquaculture, fisheries, economics, seafood science, fishing technology, and many more.
“I have been involved in several laboratory research and field surveys, developing marine and freshwater conservation and management plans, engineering prospects of tilapia aqua farming, and traditional fishing methods, and the recently funded artisanal tuna bottling and smoke tuna projects.
“After all, my journey in the Fisheries Studies program is not only an eye-opener but an interesting area of study and I’m excited about the future.
“Through my experiences, I am driven and want to give back to my community by helping future generations of fishermen,” Miriam said.
Meanwhile, to be able to get this far, she acknowledged her challenges and academic opportunities over the years until now.
“In university, you have the opportunity to chase your dreams, meet amazing friends who become family, and nature your confidence.
“The toughest challenge I’ve faced so far was having to look after my sick mother and witnessing her health deteriorating day by day. The thought of dropping out of school has crossed my mind on several occasions.
“I try to catch up on my work as best as I can. I honestly appreciate my lecturers for understanding my situation and letting me work at my own pace. Unfortunately, my mother passed in March of 2021. Through it all, I am blessed to have had a strong support system of friends and family who have helped me in overcoming my grief.
“Despite chasing my dreams, I also learned that life is too short and that death is inevitable.
“Now, I am more determined to strive for excellence and work towards the fulfillment of my dreams and make sure that my mother’s hard work will not be in vain,” she said.
