A total of 12 students from primary schools and colleges across Samoa were recipients of the Samoa Stationery and Books Scholarship Award 2020.

The award ceremony was held at the S.S.A.B conference room on Thursday morning and was attended by students and parents as well as S.S.A.B staff.

The recipients of the scholarship received certificates as well as $500 to help with their tuition fee together with $500 vouchers and an opportunity to join the S.S.A.B library when it reopens.

There are also opportunities available for Year 12 and 13 as well as foundation students to work part-time at the stationery shop.

The S.S.A.B Chief Executive Officer, Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai, congratulated the recipients of the scholarship and praised them for striving for excellence throughout their studies last year.

“I love reading the Bible so in Philippians 4:13 it states ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’,” she said.

Tofilau told the students that she wants them to aim to do their best in their education this year and emphasised three points: put God first; work hard in school; and believe in yourself.

St. Joseph College Dux of 2020, Elrod Liliolelagi Leung Wai, used the opportunity to encourage the students at the award ceremony.

"In order to achieve your goals, I have three main points which are to prioritise, plan and take into action,” he said.

Mr. Leung Wai added that the number one priority is to seek the Lord's kingdom, prioritise your studies and to remember to maintain focus.

“Know your priorities for there is a time for everything. There is no shortcut in life, be patient and be responsible," he said.

A scholar and the only recipient from Savaii is Vatau Ofisa of Gataivai who is currently in Year 13 at Palauli College.

Ms. Ofisa told the Samoa Observer that she is happy with the support from S.S.A.B which will assist her parents in these hard times.

She added that being the only recipient from Savai’i, the scholarship gives her a challenge to better her performance this year and strive to top her class.