RAVINESH Ram defied all odds after he scooped the baton of honour in a field mainly dominated by iTaukei men and women.
Mr Ram was among the 63 corrections officers who completed a 15-week basic recruitment training course and were part of the passing-out parade at the Naboro Prison Complex yesterday.
The award is given to the student who has been outstanding throughout the training and who is able to demonstrate strong leadership, integrity and strength of character.
“I cannot describe how happy I am to have been given this award,” he said.
The soft-spoken Labasa lad said he did not dream of scooping the award.
“I never did expect to receive the baton of honour.”
The 24-year-old said God was always on his side and protected him throughout the 15 weeks of intense training.
“I thank God for always being there for me and also my parents who have always supported me. I also thank the commissioner for accepting my application and all those who were behind my success.”
Being the first in his family to become a corrections officer, Mr Ram had always dreamt of joining a disciplined force such as the Fiji Corrections Service.
“It is not an easy task for one to complete the training. We have to go through a lot and that has all paid off for me.”
Mr Ram is challenging other young men like him to strive for excellence and work hard.
“Never lose hope and always try your best in what you do that is how I was able to accomplish this.”
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