Maria Ofaina Daunoco could not hold back tears after she was announced the St John’s College, Cawaci dux last Friday.
“This award is like achieving a lifetime goal and this proves to my family and friends that I have worked hard throughout the year to get the Dux Award of such a prestigious institution,” she said.
“I thank my parents for their hard work and sacrifice but I’m saddened that this is also the last days of my high school year,” the 19-year-old said.
“St John’s College has taught me a lot of things that I will always cherish; most of all it has taught me to be an independent person full of love and care and being humble towards the people I meet.”
The dux gave special thanks to the principal Father Ekuasi Manu, her form and subject teachers for their help and advice; her friends for the wonderful memories shared at Cawaci but most of all to the Almighty Father up in heaven, who was always watching over her.
“Follow your heart because nothing is impossible, if the heart is willing and always strive hard to achieve your goals,” she said.
Maria will further her studies at the University of the South Pacific next year.
The chief guest for the prizegiving was Nauru’s High Commissioner to Fiji Jarden Kephas.