The 2017 dux of Adi Cakobau School wants to become a doctor for one thing only – to help her fellow Fijians afford medical treatment.

Year 13 Ruci Joy Lauvanua, eldest of three, could not hold back her emotions yesterday when she walked to the stage to receive the school’s Dux award during the ACS annual prize-giving ceremony in Sawani, Nausori.

Overwhelmed with the numerous awards she was presented young Ruci, who has maternal links to the Solomon Islands, said she intended to use her knowledge to become a doctor to help Fijians who could not afford to undergo expensive treatment.

“I come from a big family and the reason why I want to help Fijians with medical benefits is because there has been a time when my family could not afford to undergo surgery or buy proper medicine, which costs a lot of money,” the 18-year-old said.

“My dream is to become a doctor and that is why I am always interested in the field of science. I want to keep myself motivated to study, to become the first doctor in my family too. And I know I will do it to make my family’s dream come true,” she said.

She dedicated the awards to her parents whom she said had sacrificed to meet her academic needs.

“This dux award is worth my parent’s sacrifices,” she said.

“There have been times during my years at ACS that my parents could not afford for my education needs and wants, but they never complained. They always stood by my side and gave me everything I had asked for.”

She urged her juniors and her younger sister not to give up on her studies. She said: “It does not matter how difficult the moments are, as long as you have faith that you can do it, then you will.

“It is important to keep yourself motivated and always focus on your studies because it builds you as a person and people will recognise you.” 

ADI CAKOBAU SCHOOL prize-giving

List of award winners:

Dux:
Ruci Joy Lauvanua

ACS School Award for Excellence:
Matilda Waqaisavou

Highest aggregate Year 13 certificate: Ulamila Taka

Highest aggregate Year 12 certificate: Senirewa Tuivakano

Highest aggregate Year 10 certificate: Vilimaina Tuvaga

Art and Craft prize:
Jane Cai

Ambassador Taib Trophy for creative writing: Alitia Sovunidakua

Tamari Dauveivukei Memorial trophy:
Kesaia Sailada

Music prize:
Asilika Jenifer

Culture Prize:
Diloulou Saukelo

Potters prize for Christian Fellowship: Alanieta Rokoadi

Frances Lilian Charlton prize:
Losalini Dansey

Vivita Deo award:
Ana Naulu

Industrious and innovative award:
Lusiana Qalo

Matelita Waqainabete Memorial Trophy for excellence:
Losalini Densey and Kesaia Sailada

Best all-rounder:
Senirewa Tuivakano

Prize for service:
Iliseva Latianara

Head Girl’s prize:
Alanieta Rokoadi

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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