Adran Kumar expressed gratitude for 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, he was one of two students from the Western Division honored for producing the top essay. Adran revealed that he almost gave up writing his essay midway through. “I told my parents that I couldn’t do it,” he shared, reflecting on his doubts about his abilities compared to other students across the country. However, his mother motivated him to persevere, assuring him that he could finish the essay. “I am grateful I listened to my mother,” he noted.
The competition saw participation from over 100 secondary schools with a total of 600 essays submitted. This year’s topic revolved around the Pacific Way, highlighting the unique perspectives and approaches of the Pacific region.
Adran credited his teachers for their support in achieving this milestone. He focused his essay on eco-tourism and the importance of preserving the vanua, emphasizing that eco-tourism reflects the identity of the Pacific and the importance of safeguarding Fijian culture and traditions.
He plans to further his studies in medicine and received a reward package that included $500 in cash, a laptop, and a certificate of recognition. Dr. Satendra Singh, one of the judges, praised the high quality of writing showcased in the competition, stating, “A good essay or article does not only attract but touches the hearts of the readers.”
The Deputy High Commissioner of the New Zealand High Commission, Alex Shahryar-Davies, expressed pride in supporting the essay competition for 16 years. He highlighted the opportunity it provides for students in Fiji to hone their thinking and writing skills while sharing ideas that benefit both nations.
In addition to Adran, certificates of recognition were awarded to Shresti Devi (Year 11), Kristina Kavita (Year 13), Shakshi Chand (Year 13), and Nitish Chand (Year 13).
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