AN emotional Mitieli Wilson could not fight back tears as he was awarded the dux prize of Ratu Sukuna Memorial School during their prize giving ceremony yesterday.

The 19-year-old from Taira Village in Vanuavatu, Lau was awarded the prize because of his tremendous effort in getting highest marks in mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics in his final year at the school.

He said it was through God’s assistance and his own determination to achieve the highest academic results.

“I did not expect to be awarded with the dux prize because there were a lot of other students who performed well too during the year,” Mitieli said.

“My parents have always been a pillar of strength, especially my mum, who has always been there for me.”

Youth and Sports Minister Lieutenant Colonel Laisenia Tuitubou who was chief guest at the ceremony said it was important for students to have positive attitudes in their academic career.

“I have no doubt that many that walked through the corridors of this school now hold high positions in government and other organisations and are successful men and women in Fiji and abroad,” he said.

“The school has produced fine students and citizens in the past years and continues to do so.”

He said the students in the past had displayed academic excellence and he believes they will maintain and even strive for the better in the future.