Lilly Vukicigau, the top female cadet, believes that with determination and hard work, girls can surpass boys in their achievements. The Year 13 student from Lomary Secondary School stressed that girls like her could reach the same heights as their male peers in society. As the eldest of five, she attributed her success to perseverance and dedication.
At 18, Vukicigau was honored with the best female cadet award during the Lomary Secondary School passing-out parade on Friday. She remarked on the rarity of girls receiving such accolades at school cadet events.
“I am honored to receive the award despite four weeks of intense training,” she said. “The past weeks of cadet training have taught me a lot, and I know it will benefit me in the future.”
She noted that many participants were new to the regimen, particularly waking up early in the morning during wet weather conditions.
“I am proud that we made history despite our rural setting. I want to thank the Republic of Fiji Military Forces for guiding our students through four weeks of cadet training,” she added. “Such programs should be an integral part of our school curriculum as they instill important values in youth.”