Study hard and think of your parents who work hard for you to become successful, said the 2020 Dux of Waidamudamu Sanatan Dharam Primary School outside Labasa.

Ryna Rishika Chand said when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it took a great toll on her like other students.

“Many children were lacking behind and did not concentrate while some took a longer break and left school,” Ryna said.

“It is very important for us to work hard and help out parents instead of adding to more problems to our families, society and nation as a whole.”

Ryna said her academic success was only possible because of hard work, dedication and perseverance.

She also received subject awards for Mathematics, English, Social Science and Hindi. She wants to be the first in her family to become a doctor.

Ryna’s father, Rakesh Chand, who also teaches at the school said: “I’m really proud of her. We fasted and dedicated our children and their studies to God and he answered our prayers.”

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