Levuka Public School dux Salanieta Likucevuga says her achievement s dedicated as a birthday gift to her 60-year-old mother Kalinisei Tarusila.

“My mother turned 60 on Thursday and there was no celebration so after being named the school dux on Friday I told her that it was my gift to her,” she said.

The 18-year-old student did not expect to get the prize and was surprised when her name was called out.

“This is an unexpected prize for me and my parents. All thanks and praises to the Almighty God for his help and blessings,” Salanieta said.

“I’m dedicating the prize to all my family, especially my parents for all their sacrifices and countless support.

“All the Form Seven students were eyeing the prize, but I won it because of the support I enjoyed from my family.”

Now she wants to win a National Toppers Scheme scholarship to continue her education at the University of the South Pacific (USP) and become a teacher or lawyer in the future.

The scheme is full scholarships only for the top-ranked students who have completed their Year 13  in a year preceding the award year.

Students are ranked as National Toppers in their applied priority areas of study and wish to pursue undergraduate higher education in one of the priority areas at an approved Higher Education Institution.

“Thinking of a career path my first choice is to join either the legal or teaching profession,” she said.

Salanieta also thanked her hardworking teachers who helped at the school.

“They enhanced my education career and may the good Lord bless them and their profession,” she said.

“My advice to students is to work hard and be dedicated in your studies.

“Never lose hope because anything is possible only if your heart is willing,”

Mrs Tarusila said she was surprised to hear the name of her daughter announced as dux of the school.

“I thank the Almighty God for my daughter’s achievement and it’s the best birthday gift that I’ll treasure,” she said.

She could not believe it when her daughter’s name was announced as dux of the school.

“I was really shocked,” a delighted mother said.

Ms Tarusila said they would support Salanieta to further her education and also to achieve her dream to become a teacher or a lawyer.

The LPS Best All-Rounder prize was won by Jone Veimateyaki.

Edited by Percy Kean

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