“It’s not easy looking after my mother and studying, but I always try to do my best. I think it’s important to improve my skills to get a job in the future.”
Fadi moved to Australia from Iraq over three years ago to seek a better life. Upon settling here, he assumed responsibility as a full-time carer for his mother but continued to pursue general education studies as a way to improve his prospects in this new country.
“My mother had many health problems when we arrived so I became her full-time carer,” said the 33-year-old who holds a computer science degree and extensive experience as an information technology (IT) programmer in Iraq.
“Many students don’t understand why I chose to study as it’s not required for carers, but it’s a choice I made. It’s not easy looking after my mother and studying, but I always try to do my best. I think it’s important to improve my skills to get a job in the future.”
In addition to enabling him to improve his English communication skills, the Certificate II in General Education course also provided Fadi with opportunities to undertake work placement within an IT department and inspire other learners and educators.
“I’ve improved so much since doing the course. I love meeting different students from different cultures and practising communicating with each other. As I am experienced with computers, I also get to help other learners with computer work,” he said.
“A highlight of my studies was when I was invited to speak at the Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Education Council (VALBEC) conference. It was a chance to share my experiences in learning new skills and applying in the workplace.”
Fadi plans to keep studying to achieve his goal of attaining employment in IT.
“I’ll be enrolling in the Certificate IV in Information Technology and hope to do the diploma after that. I’ll then enter university or find work. I feel really excited about this award as it’s something that I can include in my resume and increase my chances of finding a job,” he said.
