At 13 years of age, Daniel Mikaele of Leauva’a, has more than the usual fair share of worries for a boy of his age. 

But he is taking it all in his stride with the determination of a much older man.

Daniel is this year’s Dux in the Year 8 level at George Brown Primary School in Faleula. 

But unusually, for one so young and with such a strong academic record, he has already carved out his ideal future academic path: he wants to give back to the school system that has brought him to where he is today. He wants to become a teacher, specifically of the Samoan language. 

Dux awards were announced at a prize-giving ceremony on Tuesday at Wesley College’s Hall on Tuesday morning, where families and friends had gathered to celebrate the achievements of the students throughout this academic year.

Daniel had taken the top spot of George Brown Primary School after he placed first in seven subjects which include the Samoan Language, English, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education, Visual Arts, Science, and Mathematics.

In an interview after the ceremony on Tuesday, Daniel relayed his pride in his achievements and thanked God for guiding him through the challenges of the academic year.

“This is truly a blessing as I did not expect that I would be this year’s Dux, but I am thankful and proud of the achievement,” he said.

“I feel delighted about the fruits of all the hard work I put into my studies this year, as it says in the Bible, what you sow is what you reap.

“First and foremost I would like to thank our heavenly Father in Heaven for giving me the wisdom and strength during the final examinations and the National Examinations,” stated the 13-year-old.

Daniel dedicated his achievements to his mother and father for their unending support, and advice.

Though national exam results are not out yet the young high achiever has one eye on the future: 

“Hopefully when the results of the National Exams are out, I’ll get to either go to Samoa College or Avele College. But if not, I’ll continue my studies at Wesley College,” he said.

When asked about what he aspired to become in the future, the young man from Leauva’a said that if he makes it to University, he wants to pursue a career as a teacher of the Samoan language. 

“I believe that learning the Samoan language signifies learning the same history and culture of our forefathers and ancestors,”  he said. 

The Ministry of Education has recently been open about its struggle to attract high-achieving candidates to teaching roles. But Daniel is a rare example of passion being the ultimate motivator. 

"I think teaching the Samoan language will not only preserve our culture and identity as Samoans but will also benefit future generations that are keen on learning the language," he said.