Vatuaqa grabs baton of honour

Nabua Secondary School baton of honour recipient Sunia Vatuaqa, 18, yesterday acknowledged the positives made from school cadet training.

“Discipline issues that our school was known for is slowly dying with students becoming more aware of their surroundings,” Mr Vatuaqa said.

“Trainings like this change the waves of critics against the negative reputation tagged to our school,” he said.

After 10 years, the school joined hands with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) to engage students with cadet training and discipline.

At the school ground yesterday, more than 300 students including those in the school’s Matua programme participated in the cadet passing-out parade embracing their maroon and white colours.

Sharing his first-time experience be- ing part of the cadet training Mr Vatuaqa said it was all worth it.

He hails from Tovu, Totoya, Lau.

As school leader he stood steadfast defying the odds despite the hardships he faced in the two months of training.

Mr Vatuaqa said cadet training instilled discipline and a sense of responsibility in students.

“We learn to follow rules, adhere to schedules, and take accountability for our actions, which are crucial life skills,” he said.

“It played a huge role in changing our attitude, especially when we want to draw a new picture about our school.

“Students engage in activities that improve their health, stamina, and overall well-being, promoting a healthy lifestyle from a young age.

“Training was a challenge but it brought out team spirit.”

Sunia hopes to pursue a career in civil engineering at the University of the South Pacific.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj