Visceta Tuuilagi Meredith scooped Ah Mu Academy’s top Year 8 award last Friday when she was named the dux of her 2020 cohort.

The 12-year-old was emotional during an interview with the Samoa Observer after the prize-giving ceremony, saying she was overwhelmed by her success and expressed her appreciation for her parents who never gave up on her during her studies in what was a challenging year.

“It feels nice to achieve this award and thanks to all the parents for the support and never giving up on our studies,” she said.

As the dux of the school, she was given the school trophy in recognition of her academic excellence. 

Ms Meredith said hopes she can continue to Year 9 at the St Mary’s College next year and aspires to become a doctor one day, adding that she wants to work in a profession that saves lives.

Her mother Margaret Ainuu, who attended the prize-giving ceremony, told the Samoa Observer that she was speechless at her daughter’s success.

“I am just speechless, I thank God for the neverending gift he has brought us, I thank the school and the teachers for the education of our children at Ah Mu,” she said.

Ms Ainuu added that she was happy to know that her daughter already has plans, in terms of a career pathway to go to medical school.

The interruptions to classes this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was a hurdle but Ms Meredith credited her teaching for preparing their homework.

“When we were in lockdown, we got assignments to do at home (from the teacher) due to the absence of classes,” she added.

A total of 28 students completed Year 8 at Ah Mu Academy this year, though only 26 turned up for the presentation of their certificates and the prize-giving ceremony last Friday.

The top three students as well as special awards recipients from Years 1-7 also received prizes recognising their academic work this year.