Nalagi endures tough times to win dux prize

Akelio Nalagi was filled with positive emotions after being named the dux of Monfort Technical Institute in Savusavu during their prizegiving ceremony last Friday.

The 20-year-old of Vunicuicui attributed this academic achievement to his mother, Maoto Nalagi’s decision to enrol at the institute after completing Year 13 at Holy Family Secondary School.

“It wasn’t easy staying away from home during the year, surviving on strict diet and rules,” Mr Nalagi said.

“I kept reminding myself that I have to graduate with a Certificate in Carpenter General by the end of the year.”

His younger brother also graduated with him holding a Certificate in Cabinet Making. Monfort Technical Institute teacher Brother Gibi John said this was a special award given to one student who had discipline, had no unnecessary leaves, showed good leadership, received no complaint from teachers, did well in academic and had good behaviour.

“My father, who is my namesake, is a sugarcane farmer and my mother is a retired civil servant,” he said.

“I have learnt that it is important to be obedient to our parents because it comes with blessings.”

He thanked the teachers of the institute.

His elder sibling aims to attend Fiji National University next year to pursue a dream to become either a civil engineer or architect.

Meanwhile, 12 students graduated with Certificate in Automotive, nine with Certificate in Carpenter General and 10 with Certificate in Cabinet Making.

Monfort Technical Institute 

The institute is to help poor children, academically and economically, with skill training to become upright and useful citizens of Fiji. Admissions are mainly given to students from the North.

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