Thank you teachers, students and parents for 2017

It was a week of high school and primary school graduations. It has also been an amazing week of listening and writing about how our Fijian students struggled in their studies to win the many awards various schools were giving out.

Whether it be an attendance award, dux or best overall student of the year, it was certainly memorable for parents, teachers and the recipients. The awards ceremony, parents draped in their ‘Kalavata’ or best attire just to be in school on that special day and teachers ensuring the best morning tea was ready for their guests and award recipients were the highlights of the day. It is amazing to know how these students have toiled throughout the year; some lost loved ones while some faced financial constraints or peer pressure. Despite the setbacks, it was their big day; the day the recipients showed their parents how hard they have studied and in return they applauded the teachers for a job well done.

Every child in Fiji, during their various school prizegivings, all accomplished one goal – to move up another level in their studies.

As the annual prize giving ceremonies continue towards the final week of school, parents should not forget how hard their respective teachers have worked to nurture our children in the classroom, preparing and encouraging them throughout 2017.

Just like Ratu Sairusi Ragogo of Nasinu Muslim College said, he would never forget his form teacher, Reshmita Lata, who helped him in his school work.

Ratu Sairusi, a Year 13, student, had struggled to cope with his school work and was constantly tired during classes, falling off to sleep as he was unable to sleep peacefully at night.

He resided with a family member within an extended family but faced distractions and difficulties to focus in his school work. He was unable to perform well in class and his results fell drastically. He was, however, blessed to have a teacher who invited him to live with her and complete his Year 13 education.

“My teacher was like a mother to me and I really appreciate what she did for me. I will never forget how she stood by me in my difficult time,” he told Fiji Sun. Fijians have a heart of giving and acceptance. Ms Lata is not the first teacher with her family to have taken in a student to help him progress in his studies. Of course, we have other teachers who have supported or assisted students in other ways.

Children are blessed to have teachers who positively know they have the potential and can have the best education and opportunities if they are given guidance and assistance.

Teachers deserve every parent’s acknowledgment for standing by their children and parents all deserve a ‘thank you’ for supporting by their children this year.