Fa’asagafa’aifomanumailelagi Fa’alafi from Malie and Falelatai is the 2018 Dux of Peace Chapel Primary School.

The 12-year-old, who dreams of becoming a school principal, topped his Year 8 class in social science, mathematics and Samoan studies. 

He was surrounded by his parents, family members, and friends to congratulate him during the school’s prize giving ceremony. 

“I’m happy knowing that I am the overall top student in Peace Chapel Primary School and I just want to praise God for all that He has done not only for myself but also for my family. I just want to thank Him for giving me such loving parents and supportive families,” she said. 

Fa’asagafa’aifomanumailelagi dedicated his achievements to his parents, school teachers and his extended family. 

His father Fa’alafi Fa’alafi expressed his happiness with what his son has achieved after an academic year.

“I want to praise God for everything. I am so happy. This is a surprise for us. With our son’s achievement I believe this is the best Christmas present that he has presented to us and we are happy that he had made us proud.”

Fa’alafi said he never thought his son could make it this far, especially with a private school like Peace Chapel educating smart children.

He said it is not that he did not believe in his son, but that there are a less Samoan students attending the school. 

Mother, La’asaga Ela Fa’alafi told Samoa Observer that she is so proud of her son’s achievements and it was unexpected.

Fa’asagafa’aifomanumailelagi started school at Malie Primary School until Year 5, when his parents decided to take him to Peace Chapel for further studies. 

He was sent to Peace Chapel with the intention of making it to Samoa College and just yesterday he achieved it for his parents.

“We are so excited with our son’s response to us, after all this years of striving for the best.”

Fa’asagafa’aifomanumailelagi said after receiving the award, he recalled the words of one of his teachers last year telling him that he will be the Dux this year. 

Fa’asagafa’aifomanumailelagi looks forward to attending Samoa College next year, and will work towards making his family proud.