Stay true to your values and lead by example. Be inclusive, respectful, and empathetic towards your peers. Listen to their concerns, ideas, and aspirations, and work collaboratively to achieve your common goals.
This was the key message conveyed to the students of the Suva Muslim College at the Prefects Induction Ceremony for the 36 Year Captains, 66 Senior Prefects and 4 Student Council Executives.
Speaking as the Chief Guest for the occasion earlier this week, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua congratulated the prefects and motivated them to embrace the opportunity with courage and enthusiasm.
“Believe in yourselves and your ability to make a difference. Trust in your capabilities and never underestimate the impact you can have. Your journey as prefects will be filled with ups and downs, but stay focused on your vision and remain steadfast in your commitment to serve others.
“Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Your fellow prefects, teachers, and peers are here to support you every step of the way. Together, you can overcome any challenge and leave a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
“Embrace the journey, embrace the challenges, and embrace the opportunity to make a difference. You have the power to shape the future, so lead with courage, integrity, and compassion. Your teachers believe in you, your fellow students believe in you, I believe in you,” Hon. Qereqeretabua said.
The Students Council were elected through voting by all the College students and staff, with participation of the Fijian Elections office in conducting a fair election for the positions of Students Council President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer Positions.
Prefects were nominated by the teachers and went through a rigorous selection criteria which includes interviews, student presentation, referee check, leadership skills, amongst others.
The Assistant Minister thanked the Suva Muslim College and their Management Board for this democratic undertaking.
“Democracy is crucial because it gives citizens, in your case, your student body, a voice in decision-making, ensuring your interests are represented. It promotes equality, allowing everyone, regardless of background, to participate in shaping the government, or your school.
“It encourages freedom of expression and protects individual rights and liberties. Additionally, democracy promotes stability and peace by providing mechanisms for resolving conflicts peacefully.
“Ultimately, democracy empowers individuals to have a say in their governance, creating a system where the government serves the people’s best interests.”
The Suva Muslim College has a total of 600 students with 50 teaching staff.
