Gospel High dux Ilisoni Turogo dedicates his achievement to his late mother

Gospel High School’s Dux for 2024, Ilisoni Ramasibana Turogo, dedicated his award to his late mother, Mere Vakayamo, who passed away just two months ago.

Turogo shared that while he was excited to receive the award, he also felt the absence of his mother deeply, marking a bittersweet achievement in his life.

In an interview with fijivillage News, 18-year-old Turogo says despite the loss of his mother, he never gave up.

Turogo expressed his gratitude to the support system around him, including his father, younger sibling, auntie and grandmother, who were all present to celebrate his success.

When asked about his future plans, Turogo says he has applied for the New South Wales scholarship to pursue architecture.

He says if not accepted, he hopes to continue his studies at USP.

Turogo’s advice to his juniors is simple, never give up.

Meanwhile, Gospel High School proudly graduated 99 Year 13 students today.

Speaking at the event , Head of School Eliesa Parker says the school’s academic progress, year-on-year showed improvement in internal exam pass rates.

He says for Year 9, the pass rate improved to 63% from 45% last year and year 10 saw an increase to 56% from 46%, and Year 12 to 53% from 44%.

However, Year 13 showed a drop in internal results, with a pass rate of 48% this year compared to 70% last year.

He adds that year 13 students were required to meet a minimum of 75% attendance and work completion to graduate.

He also says any student failing to meet these requirements in Year 12 and Year 13 would not be accommodated in the following year.

Parker says the school do not have the space for repeaters and alternative options like training programs at FNU or repeating only the subjects they failed is available.

The head of school says Under-15 rugby team made history by reaching the Dean’s semifinals for the first time.

He adds that the Under-17 girls' basketball team reached the finals of the Fiji Secondary School Competition, another historic achievement for the school.

He says today marks the end of year 13 students journey in high school, but the beginning of a new journey.

He further says whether it be joining the workforce or pursuing further studies, he wishes all the very best.