Dux Honour for Maraia
The couple relocated to Valebasoga, Labasa, leaving behind their village life to ensure their children had access to better schooling opportunities.
Friday 06 December 2024 | 09:03
Valebasoga Secondary School dux Maraia Vuniwaqa (in garland), with her parents Waqasaqa Votuwale and Litiana Bola, nephew-Waqasaqa Votuwale Junior, and school principal Pardip Singh, during the prizegiving in Labasa on December 4, 2024.
Waqasaqa Votuwale says he is one of the happiest fathers in the world after his daughter, Maraia Vuniwaqa, was named the dux of Valebasoga Secondary School in Labasa.
The 18-year-old earned the prestigious award during the school's prizegiving ceremony on Wednesday, scoring an impressive 405 out of 500 in her Year 13 annual examination.
Mr Votuwale, a 55-year-old kava farmer from Bouma Village, Taveuni, revealed the sacrifices he and his wife made to prioritise their children's education.
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The couple relocated to Valebasoga, Labasa, leaving behind their village life to ensure their children had access to better schooling opportunities.
"It wasn't an easy decision for our family," Mr Votuwale said.
"As the sole breadwinner, I had to put my children's needs first.
"My wife and I didn't complete secondary education due to financial challenges, but I didn't want that to hold back my children."
The proud father of six shared how Maraia's achievement was no surprise, given her consistent dedication.
She had also been the dux of her school in the Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination.
Aspiring to become an accountant, Maraia expressed her gratitude for her parents' sacrifices.
"As the head girl, I kept reminding myself to set a good example, and that is why I aimed for the dux award," she said.
"I am thankful for my parents' sacrifices, and I will surely make them proud."
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