Zahra’s sleepless nights pay off with Dux Award

Zahra Zuhairaa, 13, was named dux of Maigania Muslim Primary School in Nadi during its Annual Awards and Graduation yesterday.

For Zahra, the honour is more than an award. It marks a milestone on her journey toward becoming a doctor.

The aspiring doctor said her passion for science began early and continues to motivate her each year.

“I love understanding how the human body works. It makes me want to learn more,” she said.

But the path to success came with challenges.

Zahra said balancing classes, homework, and late-night study sessions often meant sacrificing sleep.

“Sometimes I felt really tired, but I kept telling myself that all this effort would matter one day.”

Her parents shared her pride. Her mother, Jowena Naidu, said the family is grateful for Zahra’s achievements.

“Our daughter has always been determined. We’ve seen the hours she puts in, and today we are happy that her hard work has paid off. We are proud of her,” Ms Naidu said.

Zahra has made her school proud and has become a role model for her peers.

Next year, she hopes to begin her secondary school studies at Sangam Sadhu Kuppuswamy Memorial College (SSKMC), where she aims to further strengthen her academic foundation.

She said receiving the Dux Award has motivated her even more.

“This is just the beginning. I want to make my parents proud and do something meaningful for Fiji one day.”