Sui Tauasosi was named the Dux of the school during Maluafou College’s prize-giving ceremony at the school's hall at Malifa on Wednesday morning but emphasised that hard work, even in the most trying of circumstances, is rewarded. 

Besides taking the school's top award, Sui also scooped the top award in Religious Education, Geography, Computer Studies, and Accounting, a subject which she says she enjoys studying and learning about.

The event was emotionally charged, particularly for the school's Amosa family brothers who embraced each other during the celebration of the students' achievements.

During her speech at the prize-giving ceremony, the Dux conveyed that her academic journey was not easy this year. 

“There were ups and downs along the way, but I’m glad that I and my fellow Year 13 colleagues were able to complete our last year here at Maluafou," Sui said. 

“I know that this year was a rough year because our studies were affected a lot by the lock downs for the national vaccination drive in the past months, but we did not let those circumstances deter us from seeking academic knowledge and wisdom."

Sui told the Samoa Observer that she didn’t expect to win the top award; nevertheless, she is thankful to the Lord above for his blessings upon her.

She said she aims to become an accountant in the near future because the occupation will benefit her in terms of how to handle money.

Sui said that she hopes to get a degree in Accounting from the National University of Samoa.

“What I learned from accounting class is that budgeting allows you to create a spending plan for your money or income, it ensures that you will always have enough money for the things you need and the things that are important to you," she said. 

"Following a budget or spending plan will also keep you out of debt or help you work your way out of debt if you are currently in debt."

She added that budgeting helps people control their spending, track their expenses, and save more money.

Sui Tauasosi is the daughter of Tauasosi Tauasosi and mother Fuapine Filia Tauasosi from the villages of Falevao and Saleapaga. The Dux of Maluafou also acknowledged the support of her parents, who always tried their best to provide everything she needed for her studies even though at times they didn’t have enough money.

She said with tears in her eyes that she dedicates her achievement to the struggles her parents went through to ensure she received a good education and attain a better future.

“My parents are my first role models, they encouraged and motivated me to learn and chase whatever career pathway I wanted to pursue, and I couldn’t have done it without them,” stated Sui.

"My humble advice to any student who wishes to excel in their studies is that without pain and sacrifice, success will always avoid and keep away from you."