Nitishkannan Rajeshkannan, who is originally from Chennai in India, has scooped the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School 2025 Dux Award.
He has dedicated his success to the teachers, parents and friends who supported him throughout his school journey.
Rajeshkannan, who did not have any of his family members present today, says that his parents cannot attend today as they are caring for his sick grandmother in India, but he is grateful to his aunt who looks after him very well.
The MGM Dux says he wants to become a doctor because he is passionate about helping people.
His message to young people is that they surround themselves with the right friends.
He says a good circle of friends, along with supportive teachers and parents, keeps students motivated when they feel like giving up.
Rajeshkannan says one of the biggest challenges he faced is balancing leadership duties with schoolwork, especially when he has to sacrifice study time to make sure students follow school rules as he is a school prefect.
He adds that time management is not easy, but his teachers and friends make the journey easier and meaningful.
English teacher Restika Seth says she feels proud of Rajeshkannan.
She says he is hardworking and always goes the extra mile, whether in class activities or outdoor programmes.
She also praises his parents for the strong upbringing, especially his mother, who balances work while still bringing him hot lunch and supporting him every step of the way.
Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo urges MGM High School students to step boldly into the future and use education as their strongest tool.
He congratulated more than 140 students who received awards and also graduating students, and says their achievements show discipline, resilience and hard work.
Vosarogo reminds students to follow the values of Mahatma Gandhi, truth, humility, peace and service.
He encourages students who do not get awards that success is not a straight line and their time will come.
Highlighting the pressure young people face today, including social media, climate change and global uncertainty, Vosarogo says education is the best tool to overcome challenges.
He urges students to consider careers in climate science, engineering, environmental conservation, geology, agriculture, ICT and entrepreneurship, calling these careers “acts of service” to the nation.
