The ability to rise up to the occasion is a real test for leadership.

Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Mahendra Reddy made the comment during the prefects’ induction ceremony at Votualevu College in Nadi yesterday.

Mr Reddy told the new prefects that as good leaders, they must be able to make decisions based on what is morally right.

“A real leader is someone who will stand up at a difficult time, where he or she will see that his or her friend is wrong, but professionally act on it.

“There will be times that you will try to set aside your own time, to undertake those responsibilities.

“You are a very important link between the teachers and the children because you will be spending more time with the children than the teachers,” Mr Reddy said.

The Minister congratulated the prefects and encouraged them to work hard.

“You have differentiated yourself among the folks. You will play an important role in church groups, mandalis and youth groups. You will get to support leadership of various informal institutions and religious institutions to allow you to develop that leadership capacity.”

Headboy Monish Naidu said he was caught by surprise to be elected a top leader of the school because he was always busy focusing on school work.

However, he promised to work hard and lead by example.

“As the headboy, I will surely represent the school and its core values which are hospitality, compassion, being responsible and respectful.”

Headgirl, Vanisha Chand acknowledged her parents for their support in her education.

She aims to build a good reputation this year with the help of God.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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