Last year, many Year 12 students around the country put in the hard yards to pass their Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination (FY12CE).
With a two per cent increase, the pass rate improved from 74 per cent in 2023 to 76 per cent in 2024.
One of those students that scored above 350 was Jessica Singh of Rishikul Sanatan College.
Singh scored an exceptional 389 out of 400.
The 18-year-old had initially aimed to score above 390 but seeing her result, she is still content with what she has achieved.
She studied hard last year to score good marks during the external exam.
“I dedicated countless hours studying each night because it has always been my aspiration to achieve excellent marks,” she said.
“Balancing academic and leisure activities were essential to maintaining focus and ensuring sustained academic success.”
As a pure science student, Singh’s subject scores were 93 in English, 99 in Mathematics, 99 in Physics, 98 in Chemistry, and 91 in Biology.
“I had hoped to score higher in Biology, but I’m pleased with my overall performance.
“The bible verse Philippians 4:13 provided strength and motivation throughout my studies.
“I am delighted to have achieved results close to my target marks.”
Nilanshika Kumar of Vuqele, in the interior of Vatukoula scored 372 out of 400 in the FY12CE.
The Tavua College student felt overwhelmed scoring a total of 372 as she didn’t expect to score above 370.
She said her parents were over the moon about her results, particularly her Pure Maths mark.
“My parents were excited upon the release of the marks. The Pure Mathematics mark really added to their excitement.”
In her best four, she had scored 100 in Pure Maths, 93 in English, 90 in Physics and 89 in Chemistry.
Now she looks forward to what this year has to offer as she begins her journey as a Year 13 student at Tavua College.
“I am already enrolled in Year 13 and my aim is to achieve a higher result that would qualify me to take a step forward in achieving my goal.
“My sincere gratitude to my subject teachers and the principal of Tavua College and I would like to thank my parents and relatives for their support and guidance.”
Swami Vivekananda College student, Faith Lagilagi Hanisi Rachel Raduva also passed her exam.
The 17-year-old said she feels great and was relieved that she managed to pass despite the challenges she faced both at home and at school.
When she checked her marks, she like other students was nervous.
“I was nervous at first but when I saw my marks I was happy and a bit emotional. We prayed and thanked God for the results and I felt calm and at ease,” she said.
“I look forward to starting school and seeing my friends and teachers. My goal for Year 13 is to study hard and get better results so I can continue to pursue my career path which is to become an aircraft engineer.
“I would love to thank God for his guidance and teachings. I would also like to thank my family for encouraging and building me up despite the challenges that I faced. I also would like to thank my teachers and classmates for helping me in my education, my cousins who forced me to study Maths and my church family, who helped me spiritually and mentally for the exam.”
The Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro congratulated all Year 12 students for their hard work and achievements.
“Your dedication and perseverance amidst challenges have set a strong foundation for your future endeavours,” he said.
“I also extend my sincere appreciation to all the teachers, parents and guardians who have played a crucial role in guiding and assisting our students throughout their academic journey.
“This reflects the hard work, resilience, and dedication of our students, teachers, principals and the school community.
“The academic performance is a testament to the effectiveness of our educational initiatives and the commitment to excellence in learning.”
The Minister highlighted that three secondary schools achieved 100 per cent pass rate in the exams.
The schools were Yasawa North Secondary School, Wainimakutu Secondary School and Labasa College.
Wainimakutu Secondary School in Namosi congratulated its students through its Facebook page.
The school in a post, thanked its students for their hard work and sacrifices.
“You’ve all made us proud and a big thanks to the man above, God is indeed great,” the school stated.
“Congratulations to all the hardworking administration team and staff too for your perseverance, resilience, sacrifice and determination.
“To the parents and other stakeholders, thank you for the support shown.”