The Year 12 of St Mary’s College gifted the school new netball uniforms, cordless microphones and 10 ceiling fans as part of their student project.

This was funded and sponsored by the Spellathon and the support from parents, the church and friends.

“I always believe in fundraising, such as the Spellathon, because it’s educational and beneficial for the students. Sponsors give the girls 100 difficult words. As it was a dollar for each word, they had to attempt to learn 100 words and were expected to spell to the sponsors," said head girl, Niu He-i-Moana Hafoka Vi. 

"They take the test, and depending on how many words are correctly spelt, 10 per cent goes into their assignments for their exams. The process takes time as they are given words the first week to learn and prepare for the test. By the time the fundraiser has ended, there are no clashes with the preparation for their upcoming exams.”

The outcome of the two-month fundraising had the students give $1,500t for netball uniforms, two cordless microphones valued at $1300 and the ceiling fans for five classrooms and five administration offices at a cost of $9200. The students collected $12000.

“We are very thankful to all our sponsors and friends, all those who donated to our project. As well as a special thanks to our teachers for their ongoing support for our school fundraisers and most especially the principal, without her, this project wouldn’t have been possible, as she was managing the whole fundraiser,” said Niu.

“I also like to acknowledge my sisters tin he graduating class for their commitment and contributions to making our project successful.”

According to the head girl, the idea from the beginning of the project was to look at areas of the school that needed assistance.

St Mary’s College principal Sina Fitu said that since 2017, graduating classes have given the school many gifts, which have improved areas of the compound and created a better learning environment.

"These include the building of the new water fountain, ceramic tiles in areas of the school, air-conditioning the library rooms, and so much more. But this year's project had the biggest expenses," she said.

"The student's gifts to the school have widely impressed the education board, but their efforts are never by themself as they have supporters.

“What the students are doing for the school is fantastic as it is improving the school in so many ways without the school having to spend money. The staff and sister Masela are grateful for the student’s contribution in helping the campus grow."