President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has assured thousands of pupils who wrote this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) that while the examination marks an important milestone, it does not determine their future.
In a social media address on Friday, the president congratulated every child who sat the examination.
He commended them for their perseverance and encouraged them to approach the next phase of their education with confidence and determination.
“I congratulate those who achieved outstanding results. Your hard work, discipline, and determination have been rewarded, and you should be proud of what you have accomplished. I also want to congratulate every other student who sat these examinations. You accepted the challenge, persevered, and reached an important milestone in your educational journey,” the president said.
As students prepare to enter secondary school in September, President Ali reminded them that the NGSA is only the beginning of a much longer educational journey.
Drawing from his own experience transitioning to secondary school, the president acknowledged that many pupils may feel both excitement and uncertainty, but stressed that schools are places where lifelong friendships are formed, values are instilled, and dreams begin to take shape.
“It is not the name of the school that determines your future. It is the commitment you bring into the classroom every single day. Success is built through consistency…Your future will not be written by one examination. It will be written by thousands of choices you make from this day forward,” he said.
The president also expressed appreciation to parents, guardians, and teachers, whose sacrifices and encouragement contributed significantly to the students’ achievements.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to education, President Ali said unprecedented investments are continuing to ensure every child has access to quality learning opportunities.
“Our commitment is that no child should be denied the opportunity to achieve his or her fullest potential because of circumstance. That is why we’ll continue to provide the resources, the facilities, the opportunities, and the support to help each of you become the very best version of yourselves,” the president expressed.