A 21-year-old is the first in her family to be awarded a National Toppers Scheme (NTS) scholarship.

Artika Anjana Devi of Nakasi, Nausori, the second eldest of three siblings, is on her third year of the Toppers Scheme scholarship, pursuing her career in Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and Economics at the Fiji National University.

Her mother and sister have been supportive of her and their family as they are the only breadwinners in the family after her father died in 2014.

She appreciates the NTS scholarship, which gives her the opportunity to study further.

Ms Devi completed her Year 13 in 2014 from Bhawani Dayal Arya College.

She said the NTS provided good opportunities for many students to work hard and prosper in their studies and a bright future ahead.

“It reduces the difficulties for me to repay the loan,” she said.

“The NTS scheme also motivated me to work hard so that I will be able to achieve my goals in life.

“I think National Toppers are best so that students do not have to face any difficulties in studying as the students are eligible for book and pocket allowances and some housing too.

“Their families feel secured through these assistance and burden free.

“Unlike the multi-ethnic scholarship scheme, the NTS scheme is better because it does not divide anyone’s future and career on their ethnic background,” Ms Devi said.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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