BY LESLEY FOINAGWA – ISLES MEDIA FREELANCER
Gwaidingale Community High School has officially named Keleb Marito’o as the Form Six Dux of the Year for 2025, recognising his outstanding academic performance across both science and arts disciplines.
Keleb, won six top awards for his excellent school results. He did very well in all his main subjects and was named the top student (Dux) for 2025. Keleb came first in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. He also won the big award – Dux of the Year 2025.
The Dux award, the highest academic honour for Year 12 students, was announced by Deputy Principal Madam Joyce Robote’e and presented by the school’s Principal, Mr. Chrisanto Kaeni, during the school’s annual prize-giving ceremony.
Keleb received a total of six major academic awards, claiming first place in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English—a clean sweep of the most competitive subjects at the senior level.
The Arts and Science Awards segment was led by Madam Rosa Okai, with the Chairman of the School Board, Mr. Stanley One, presenting the prizes.
In his reflection speech, Keleb shared that earning the Dux title had been his goal from the beginning of the year.
“This award is something I have aimed for since the beginning of this year,” he said. “I want to thank God who helped me throughout my studies. I truly believed, and now I see that I have achieved what I worked hard for.”
Despite his success, Keleb acknowledged that his journey is far from over as he awaits his Form Seven exam results next year.
“Even though I have received these awards, I’m still looking forward to the results of my Form Seven exams in 2026. Becoming Dux was my goal, and now I’ve reached it.”
This marks a major personal milestone, as he noted that he had never received a major award throughout his secondary education until this year.
“From Form One to Form Five, I never received any major prizes. But now in Form Six, in 2025, I’ve finally done it.”
Keleb credited his success to discipline, prayer, and the ongoing support from his teachers.
“When I needed help, I would go directly to my teachers – especially in Mathematics and Physics. Even after school, while others went home, I stayed back to seek help.”
Madam Muriel Maetorea, his science teacher, praised him as a hardworking and committed learner.
“Keleb is a smart, focused student who always puts effort into his studies,” she said.
He also shared how his older brother, a former Form Six student at Gwaidingale CHS, served as his role model and inspired him to aim higher.
Although Biology was once his favourite subject, Keleb said his interests shifted toward Physics and Mathematics over time. His initial dream of becoming a doctor has now evolved into a passion for Engineering.
“My dream is to become an engineer one day. That is my goal – and I will work hard towards it, if it is in God’s plan.”
Keleb admitted that Chemistry is still the subject he finds most difficult, especially mastering chemical reactions, but his results prove that perseverance pays off.
Meanwhile, Keleb concluded his speech with words of encouragement to his fellow students in lower forms.
“To the students from Form One to Form Five – I encourage you to change. Nothing is too hard if you change your mindset and focus on your goals. If you see others receiving awards, ask yourself: ‘Why not me?’ You need discipline, commitment, and the right attitude.”
He also urged students to stay away from harmful habits such as smoking or chewing betel nut, and to focus on their education and future goals.
