Degree holder Regina misses late father

By BRADLEY MARIORI
REGINA Balu yesterday dedicated her Bachelor in Applied Heritage degree to her late father who never gave up on her even after she got pregnant in high school.
“I got early pregnancy but he cared and (supported) me through my education,” she said.
“He paid for my rental while at school, paid for my school fees and did everything to keep me going until I completed my studies.
“He will be a proud dad watching me from heaven.
“I dedicate this (degree) to him.”
Regina, from Minj in Jiwaka, yesterday received her degree at the University of Goroka graduation.
Although her mother Betty Balu was by her side yesterday, she still missed her best motivator and supporter who was not there to witness her success.
Dad Balu Umbe died in October last year.
Regina said she had fallen pregnant in school but despite that, her father did not give up on her.
He was a small-medium enterprise owner in Ramu, Madang.
He had three wives and 15 children.
Out of the 15 siblings, Regina is the only one who has managed to graduate from a tertiary institution so far.
“I wish he was here.
“He was supposed to be here and see my success. I know he would be so proud of me,” Regina said.