“When It Gets Tough, You Become Tougher” – Dr. Ravneil’s PhD Journey

My wife’s unwavering belief in me gave me strength when I doubted myself. My kids were my joy and a reminder of why this journey mattered—not just for me, but for them.

In a world where responsibilities often outweigh dreams, few manage to balance ambition, family, and purpose with such grace as Dr. Ravneil. Today, as he walked across the graduation stage at the University of the South Pacific, receiving his PhD in Computer Science, it wasn’t just the culmination of an academic journey—it was the celebration of resilience, love, and a powerful legacy in the making.

Dr Nand graduated with PHD in Computing Science from the University of the South Pacific

“I always believed in the power of education,” Dr. Ravneil shares, eyes gleaming with pride and humility. “The desire to set an example for my children pushed me towards this goal. Teaching and learning were my core foundation.” His passion for education wasn’t just a personal goal—it was a legacy he wanted to build for his family, and a contribution he wanted to make to the world of computer science.

His research, titled “Preference-based stepping-ahead Firefly Algorithm for solving multi-dimensional problems,” sounds complex—and it is. But its heart lies in something very real: solving real-world issues around resource planning and scheduling in dynamic environments. “I hope my work contributes in practical fields where optimization is needed the most,” he explains.

But like any meaningful journey, the road to a PhD was not smooth. Between family life, a full-time job, and the sheer intensity of research, time was a rare luxury.

Balancing work, family, and studies meant time was always tight. But in academia, I’ve learnt that no matter what the challenges are, you have to keep pushing. Resilience is built one day at a time.

Currently an Assistant Lecturer at USP, Dr. Ravneil teaches software engineering and project management, and he credits his academic environment for offering him the support he needed. “Being employed at USP gave me the needed understanding and flexibility. The key was prioritization—no matter what the situation, I gave my 100%.”

But his greatest strength came from home.

Dr Nand with his wife, Priyam Narayan, and three daughters.

“My family was my anchor,” he says with emotion. “My wife’s unwavering belief in me gave me strength when I doubted myself. My kids were my joy and a reminder of why this journey mattered—not just for me, but for them.” His voice softens as he adds, “They made the sacrifices worthwhile. As the saying goes, united we stand, divided we fall.”

Interestingly, while many would assume a PhD would be the hardest part, Dr. Ravneil reveals that it was during his master’s studies when he truly questioned his path.

The thought of giving up never came during my PhD, but it did during my master’s. When the going gets tough, you become tougher. And the purpose behind my journey kept me going.

Now post-PhD, he’s embracing a new chapter—mentoring future researchers, spending more quality time with his family, and deepening his research. “I’m currently exploring opportunities to mentor master’s students and continue research that bridges theory and practice.”

Dr Nand at the University of the South Pacific Graduation.

For those considering a similar path, his message is simple but profound: “It’s okay to be afraid. Yes, it’s tough. But with the right mentor and mindset, things fall into place. When it gets tough, you become tougher—and can take any problem with ease.”

Support, he emphasizes, was everything. “My wife, my kids, my mentors—Prof. Bibhya Sharma and Dr. Kaylash Chaudhary—and a few close friends who understood the journey made all the difference.” And if there’s one thing he’d do differently, it would be to stress less and trust more. “I wish someone had told me, ‘You’re allowed to struggle.’ Because struggling makes you stronger.”

Dr Nand with (Left) Prof. Bibhya Sharma and (Right) Dr. Kaylash Chaudhary

Today, Dr. Ravneil is not just a PhD holder—he is a symbol of strength, patience, and unwavering commitment. His story reminds us that with purpose in your heart, support by your side, and dreams in your eyes, anything is possible.