BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Frequently, students enrolled at the Solomon Islands National University have found themselves forced to withdraw due to financial challenges that hinder their ability to pursue their education to the fullest extent.
John Fa’ama’u, a final-year student specializing in joinery and carpentry, is preparing to graduate next year and has resorted to cultivating tobacco at home to earn the necessary funds for his educational expenses.
At 38 years old and originally from West Kwaio in Malaita province, Fa’ama’u encountered difficulties in covering his school fees after the support from the East Honiara constituency diminished significantly.
“I was a self-sponsored student, but I received financial assistance from Douglas Et’e throughout my two years of study. Once I learned that he would no longer be supporting me, I began seeking alternative means to sustain myself,’’ stated the father of three.
Fa’ama’u commenced his home tobacco cultivation in early February of the year 2023, intending to produce and sell homegrown tobacco coils.
As Fa’ama’u was developing his farm, he was confronted by the landowners who insisted that he cease his activities.
“They advised me to cease my efforts; however, I requested their permission to establish a small farm and inquired about the possibility of purchasing the land. I presented my rationale, and they ultimately accepted my proposal. We reached an agreement for the sum of $1200, and I informed them of my intention to make an initial payment, to which they consented. So, I provided them with $600.
“Once we reached an agreement, they informed me of the designated starting and stopping points, establishing the boundaries. Consequently, I began to cultivate homegrown tobacco, potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants, taro, and various vegetables. Before the harvest, they approached me with a request to gather some produce for themselves. I agreed to their request, stating that it is their land, and therefore, they are welcome to come and collect whatever they desire.
The struggling father stated, “After that point, they ceased inquiring about the outstanding matters we had previously agreed upon, as I permitted them to come and take whatever they desired from the farm.
Fa’ama’u typically dries the harvested tobacco leaves within a locally crafted hat that he constructed on his farm, a process that requires four days to effectively dry the leaves prior to the production of his homemade tobacco coils.
“This is how I considered the idea one day, reflecting that I needed to take action; otherwise, life would become increasingly challenging for both myself and my family. I engaged in several temporary jobs, yet the high cost of living in the city has become burdensome. My financial resources are insufficient to cover my educational expenses. I sold my goods to the market vendor at the Gilbert camp where I lived,’’ Fa’ama’u stated.
“I typically offer full coils for sale, although I occasionally cut them into blocks. The price for a coil generally ranges from $300 to $400, depending upon its size and quality. I am capable of producing two to three coils of home tobacco each day. It requires a consistent two months before I can expect my first harvest, stated Fa’ama’u. This income sufficiently supports my educational requirements and daily living expenses,” he added.
Mr. Fa’ama’u typically prefers to save his money at home rather than in a bank.
He stated, “I keep my earnings at home for convenience, whether for my personal needs or to support my family. I have three children, and I also send some of my produce to my wife to assist them.
“According to this father of three, there are countless ways to reach one’s goals. “My advice is that we are all unique individuals. God has gifted us with wisdom and knowledge. When we observe our parents struggling to provide for our education and daily necessities, we must think critically and make decisions that will benefit and sustain us throughout our lives.
“In today’s world, money is essential; everything we desire requires financial resources. To eat, one must spend money. Therefore, we should be willing, kind, and humble, and take action on our plans rather than merely speaking about them without follow-through.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the landowners for permitting me to farm on their land. I also thank God, the Creator, for providing me with the opportunities that have enabled me to realize my aspirations,” Mr. Fa’ama’u remarked.
