Carpenter’s Son Gets Toppers Scholarship

Divnish Pratap,18, knew that the only way he could further his studies was through the toppers scholarship.

The former Shri Guru Nanak Khalsa College student scored 332 out of 400 on his Year 13 External Examination last year.

He is currently pursuing his diploma in  Land Surveying at the Fiji National University.

“My father is a carpenter and I know how hard he works, and I do not want him to worry about my fees and that was why I studied hard to be one of the toppers recipients,” Divnish said.

“For me toppers scholarship was my only way to study at the tertiary level and I thank the Government of the day for giving me this opportunity.

“I will work hard and make sure that I graduate after my three years course so that I can help my family.

“My family lives in Labasa and to be away from them is hard but I know that I am here for a purpose.

“I had to sacrifice a lot in order to be a toppers recipient; it was not easy, but I told myself that I have to get the toppers scholarship no matter what.

“My sacrifices were not in vain, and it was all worth it.”

Divnish said land surveying was not his choice of career.

“I wanted to become an architect but because it is not part of the toppers course, I had to opt to do land surveying as my dad wanted,” he said.

“After completing my course, I am hoping to work and then pay my own fees to do an architect course.

“My older sister and I are both toppers’ recipients and this has helped my family a lot.”

Divnish advises youngsters never to give up on your dreams.

“Always make your parents proud.

“Education will open doors to a lot of opportunities so when you get an opportunity to study take it.”

Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj