Thirteen-year-old aspiring doctor Cecilia Iosefa is the dux of the Saint Mary’s Primary School.

The daughter of Makerita and Iosefa Iefata Iese, who are from the villages of Faleula and Vailoa Palauli, she topped her grade in mathematics and social science and was announced as the top student at a prize-giving ceremony on Monday.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Ms Iosefa said she felt both honoured and humbled for her success.

“I want to be a doctor so that when my parents become sick, I can treat them in the future,” she added. “I want to dedicate my success to my late grandfather, who passed away two years ago. It was not an easy journey because like everyone else, we all face hardships, for me, one of my difficult subjects was Samoan studies but all overcome obstacles in order to continue living in life.”

During her valedictorian speech, she told her classmates that Monday marked the end of their effort and struggles at the primary level, and the opening of another journey.

“So please keep fighting for the betterment of our future, our families and churches and of course our nation,” she added.

Ms Iosefa also emphasised that no matter what school they attend next year, their names will always be treasured in their beloved St. Mary’s Primary School.

“Always be strong and never give up, no matter what. I will be attending St. Mary’s College next year for further studies.”

She also used the opportunity to thank the Sisters for all their hard work, especially for the endless prayers for the betterment of the school.

The students’ parents were also acknowledged for their support, despite being faced with many challenges and made reference to a Samoan saying: 

“The pinnacle of the parents’ love are their children, in other words their love is founded in the hope that their children will turn out right.”

Ms Iosefa’s father, Iese, said that above all else thanksgiving and glory should go to God as without him nothing can be achieved in life.

“I believe that if a parent’s hopes and aspirations do not coincide with God’s will then it will not be successful,” he said. “I thank the Lord’s love and kindness for answering our prayers; we also fasted so that the children will do well in school.”