Northern students shine with Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards

Seventy-three students from seven schools in the Northern Division were awarded their Duke of Edinburgh International Award Bronze Level certificates at the Labasa Civic Centre yesterday.

The ceremony brought together students from Dreketi Central College, Ahmadiyya Muslim College, Seaqaqa Central College, Labasa Muslim College, Labasa College, Labasa Sangam (SKM) College, and Naleba College.

The students’ achievements were celebrated for completing the programme’s challenging activities, which fostered personal growth, resilience, and leadership.

Permanent secretary for Youth and Sports, Ratu Meli Nacuva, commended the students for their hard work and encouraged them to take pride in their accomplishments.

"The award has allowed youths to discover their potential, build resilience, and realise what they were truly capable of," Ratu Meli said.

He urged them to continue seeking experiences that could lead to a brighter and more purposeful future.

Labasa College student Vaiydesh Naicker, 17, expressed pride in completing the Bronze level.

"We have put a lot of work into completing this journey," Vaiydesh said, adding that he looked forward to progressing to the next level of the award.

The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is a non-formal education programme aimed at inspiring young people aged 14 to 24 to develop life skills, build confidence, and pursue personal goals through structured activities.

The event celebrated not only individual achievements but also the collective spirit of Northern Division youths who embraced challenges and opportunities.