To the Year 8 Students of Fiji,
First, I’d like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to those of you who excelled in your recent exams! Your achievements are a testament to your dedication and the sacrifices made by your parents, family, and ancestors. Take this moment to celebrate your success with humility and gratitude.
However, this message is also for those who may not have achieved the results they desired. Remember, this is not the end of your journey. While the pain of disappointment can feel overwhelming right now, and the chatter from others may sting for a short while, it is essential to focus on how you choose to move forward from this moment.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I once faced challenges in certain subjects and dealt with a teacher who publicly ranked students based on their exam scores, causing humiliation and lasting scars. That experience taught me the damaging effects of a culture that places so much emphasis on grades.
As a teacher today, I made a commitment to ensure no student feels the shame I once endured. We must break free from our obsession with test scores, which often stems from outdated views and limited resources. Your value is not dictated by a number.
Whether you score a 100 or a 50, what defines you is your intent, ambition, and hard work. Every individual has unique strengths and challenges; some may excel in math but struggle with science, while others shine in sports but find languages difficult. The only competition that truly matters is with yourself. Have you made progress from where you started?
It’s perfectly okay to feel bad today—I’ve been through it. Let this disappointment motivate you to strive for improvement. Redirect your energy into something positive, and one day you’ll look back at this moment with pride, amazed by how far you’ve come.
I wish someone had shared this perspective with me when I was younger. As we move forward, it’s our duty to shift the focus from grades, fostering a healthier outlook for future generations. You are more than enough—for yourself, your parents, and the world.
When you look in the mirror, take pride in who you are. Don’t let the opinions of those who may not understand your journey undermine your self-worth or abilities. The world is eager to see what you can accomplish, and your journey is just beginning.
Keep striving and believing in yourself. You are capable, you are brilliant, and you are enough.
In conclusion, it’s important to remember that setbacks can pave the way for growth and greater achievements. Each experience, whether good or bad, contributes to your personal development and resilience. So, embrace this moment, learn from it, and look forward to the bright future ahead.
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