Education Is Deeply Spiritual

Learn how Malakai grew in knowledge and faith through BYU-Pathway

Malakai, Verenaisi, and their two children, Akeai and Vasemaca, at the Suva Fiji Temple.png — Malakai, Verenaisi, and their two children, Akeai and Vasemaca, at the Suva Fiji Temple.

A disciple, leader, and lifelong learner

Malakai Koroilagilagi carries many titles: branch president, teacher, career coach, and service missionary. But his most cherished titles are father, husband, and disciple of Jesus Christ.

Malakai joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2017 and was sealed to his family in the temple in 2025, a cherished experience he says he “will never forget.”

Choosing to experience BYU-Pathway firsthand

When his stake president encouraged Church leaders to promote BYU-Pathway Worldwide , Malakai felt a personal responsibility to participate.

“In order to effectively teach and minister to others, I needed to experience BYU-Pathway myself,” he said. So he enrolled.

Malakai completed his foundational BYU-Pathway courses.png — Malakai completed his foundational BYU-Pathway courses.

Strengthening faith alongside academic skills

Alongside his academic studies, Malakai developed meaningful spiritual habits, including studying the scriptures, participating in religion courses, and praying before starting assignments.

“As I drew closer to God, I was better able to understand my assignments, manage my time, and stay motivated,” he says. “Heavenly Father became my true study partner.”

Supporting family through faith and education

Malakai’s education helped his family during a time of need.png — Malakai’s education helped his family during a time of need.

When Malakai’s wife, Verenaisi, started a PhD program, both were working to support their family. Over time, the stress and long work hours took a toll on her health.

Malakai says, “After much prayer and discussion, we decided she should resign from her job and focus on completing her PhD.” While they knew it was the right decision for their family, it placed the full financial responsibility on Malakai.

Using the knowledge and practical skills he had gained through BYU-Pathway, Malakai secured a job as a mentor for other students. “This second job helped us meet our financial obligations,” he says. “It truly has been a tender mercy in our lives.”

Building confidence through EnglishConnect

Before continuing BYU-Pathway, Malakai paused his studies to complete EnglishConnect 3, a low-cost program that helps individuals improve their English for future education and employment.

Elder and Sister Bryan supported Malakai during EnglishConnect 3.png — Elder and Sister Bryan supported Malakai during EnglishConnect 3.

“EnglishConnect has helped me a lot,” he says, “especially with my confidence in using English everyday. It also helped me in school. I can better understand instructions, write clearly, and participate in discussions.”

Malakai recently finished certificates in project management and business and leadership skills and is managing a side business growing short-term crops.

“Education is deeply spiritual”

“BYU-Pathway is a blessing for individuals and families alike,” Malakai says. “It is flexible and designed to fit around your life.”

He adds, “It not only builds practical skills for employment but also strengthens your testimony of Jesus Christ. Education is deeply spiritual. It requires faith, discipline, and a desire to grow. BYU-Pathway can lift you higher than you ever imagined.”

Learn more at byupathway.edu.

Article published on March 9, 2026