Rural Udu school defies odds with 100% Year 12 pass rate

A small rural school in Fiji’s remote Udu district has defied limited resources and geographic challenges to achieve a 100 per cent pass rate in the Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination, proving that determination and disciplined preparation can bridge the rural–urban divide.

The maritime-based school in Macuata Province recorded a perfect result after all 13 students who sat the external examination passed, with the top student scoring 319 out of 400.

Head of School Ajesh Prasad said the milestone was achieved through simple but focused strategies, including intensive revision classes, strong use of past-year examination papers and extra night classes for hostel students.

“We kept it simple and focused on what works,” Mr Prasad said.

“We increased revision classes, placed strong emphasis on exam practice and ensured students remained engaged throughout.”

He said the school’s pass rate improved from 86 per cent to 100 per cent, a standard he is determined to maintain in his eighth term as head of the school.

Mr Prasad said students were constantly reminded that strong results would improve their chances of progressing to Year 13 and qualifying for Government-assisted scholarships.

“The hard yards have been put in, and now it is time to show results,” he said.

Beyond academic success, the school aims to produce students who are confident and well prepared for future employment opportunities.

Parental and community support also played a critical role.

Mr Prasad said regular parent-teacher meetings and community awareness sessions helped secure full parental backing.

“With full support from parents, our work became easier because they ensured more time was dedicated to studies and exam preparation,” he said.

Most students come from farming and fishing families, and teachers used the sacrifices made by parents to motivate students to strive for excellence.