Waqasaqa Votuwale is celebrating a remarkable milestone as his daughter, Maraia Vuniwaqa, has been named the dux of Valebasoga Secondary School in Labasa. This achievement, announced during the school’s prizegiving ceremony, highlights Maraia’s academic excellence, with an outstanding score of 405 out of 500 in her Year 13 annual examination.
Maraia’s success is a testament to the sacrifices made by her parents, who prioritized education above all else. Waqasaqa, 55, a kava farmer from Bouma Village in Taveuni, and his wife made the significant decision to move to Labasa to provide their children with better schooling opportunities. Despite the challenges they faced, including financial constraints that had prevented them from completing their own secondary education, the couple remained committed to their children’s future.
“This wasn’t an easy decision for our family,” Mr. Votuwale revealed. As the primary provider, he emphasized the importance of meeting his children’s needs first, demonstrating a profound dedication to their education.
Maraia’s achievement comes as no surprise to her parents, as she has consistently shown dedication to her studies. It is notable that she was also named dux in the Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination. With aspirations to become an accountant, Maraia expressed heartfelt gratitude for her parents’ sacrifices, affirming, “I will surely make them proud.”
This story illustrates the power of commitment and sacrifice in pursuit of education, highlighting how parental support can pave the way for children’s success. As Maraia sets her sights on her future, she embodies hope and determination, inspiring other students to strive for their goals.
In a world where challenges are rampant, this family’s journey stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with perseverance and a supportive network, aspirations can become reality.
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