Adran Kumar is thankful that he heeded his mother’s encouragement to participate in the New Zealand-Fiji Secondary School Essay Competition 2024. The Year 12 student from Sabeto College in Nadi emerged as the supreme winner of the 16th edition of the competition.
At just 17 years old, he was one of two students from the Western Division recognized for crafting the best essay. Kumar recounted a moment of doubt during his writing process, sharing, “Halfway through writing my essay, I gave up and told my parents that I couldn’t do it. I was overwhelmed by the thought that many other students across the country wrote better than me, and I felt it would be pointless to try my best only to fail.”
Fortunately, his mother encouraged him not to give up, urging him to continue and finish his work. “I am grateful I listened to my mother,” he expressed.
The competition saw participation from over 100 secondary schools, with a total of 600 essays submitted. The theme focused on the Pacific Way, highlighting the unique approaches taken by the Pacific region.
Kumar acknowledged the support of his teachers, attributing his success to their guidance. He focused his essay on eco-tourism and the importance of preserving the vanua. “I conveyed my thoughts in writing, emphasizing that eco-tourism showcases our identity to the Pacific and the world. It plays a role in preserving Fijian culture, traditions, and our land.”
With plans to pursue a medical education, Adran received several awards, including $500 in cash, a laptop, and a certificate of recognition. One of the judges, Dr. Satendra Singh, noted the high caliber of writing in this year’s competition, stating, “A good essay or article does not only attract but touches the hearts of the readers.”
Alex Shahryar-Davies, the Deputy High Commissioner of the New Zealand High Commission, expressed pride in supporting the essay competition for 16 consecutive years. He remarked, “It has provided students across Fiji with a wonderful opportunity to express themselves through essays, blending their thinking and writing skills into an informative and enjoyable experience. This competition serves as a platform for New Zealand and Fiji to share ideas that benefit our communities.”
Certificates of recognition were also awarded to Shresti Devi, Year 11; Kristina Kavita, Year 13; Shakshi Chand, Year 13; and Nitish Chand, Year 13.
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