Meet Gordon secondary’s Gr 12 science dux

Jubilation, relief, anxiety and sadness were just some of the emotions experienced at today’s Gordon Secondary School 24th graduation.

Parents, guardians, friends and relatives in Port Moresby turned up to witness the closing of a chapter in their loved one’s life.

281 outgoing Grade 12 students received their attainment certificates today at the Gordon Secondary School hall.

Wearing their white and maroon uniforms for the last time, students from the seven Grade 12 classes walked up to receive their certificates in front of proud family members.

Among them was Grace Mageo, who was awarded dux of the Grade 12 science students.

From New Ireland and East New Britain, this down-to-earth girl has been topping her classes since primary school.

Mageo is part of the class of 12P – science stream.

She came first in mathematics A, physics, chemistry, language and literature and second in biology.

“I’m just happy that it’s over and very thankful, grateful to God. He has brought me this far,” she said.

“Don’t take education for granted. That’s very important," she advised. 

“Because it comes only once and though you will have other options, you’ll face difficulties.

“Once you have it, just make the most of it.”

Mageo said she was able to come this far thanks to the support of her parents as well as teachers.

The soft-spoken New Guinea Islander shared that it was no smooth ride, even in primary school.

“I transferred in to Wardstrip in Grade Seven and it was quite tough – moving into a new school with new teachers and a new class – but my mother was always beside and she always encouraged me: ‘Just do your best’.

“And also in Grade Eight I had a really nice teacher and she helped me.”

Mageo has her sights set on the University of Technology, where her elder sister is also studying.

“I just hope that I have more years to spend and achieve more things and make my family proud.

“A very big thank you to my chemistry, physics and biology teachers and the 12P students, who have been my family this year.”

Mageo is excited but also anxious of what the future holds for her.

Author: 
Carmella Gware