THE valedictorian of Anna Regina Secondary School, Pradesh Kevic Dwarka of Lot 10 Reliance, has been named the second-highest performing Caribbean student at the recent CSEC examination. The son of Ganesh and Shazeena Dwarka (owner of Payless General Store), Dwarka, converted adversity into achievement, securing a position among the region’s leading CSEC examinees.

Having achieved a remarkable academic record of 26 subjects, 24 grade ones and 2 grade twos, Pradesh asserted his resolute commitment to success. His recognition as the best graduating student at Anna Regina Secondary School’s 46th Graduation and Prize-Giving Ceremony solidified his status as a preeminent academic achiever nationally and regionally.
Delivering the valedictory speech at his school’s graduation last Wednesday, Pradesh shared how countless hours of revision and sleepless nights fuelled his resolve to succeed. He attributed his achievements to the unwavering support of those around him.

Pradesh’s fundamental understanding from the outset was that success is not bestowed, but rather, achieved through persistent daily effort. His undertaking, however, was fraught with difficulty. His journey included prolonged periods of study, extensive note-taking, and moments of frustration.
Notwithstanding these challenges, Pradesh did not confront them in isolation. His success was attributed, in no small part, to the support of his family and community. His parents served as a bedrock of strength for him. His mother provided consistent encouragement, emphasising the importance of maximal effort irrespective of the result. In the interim, his father provided comprehensive support, securing optimal learning materials and addressing any challenges encountered. Pradesh witnessed a unified commitment, underscoring the collaborative nature of his accomplishment.

His elder sibling, Kevin, imparted the significance of strategic thought. Kevin demonstrated that despite procrastination and setbacks, meticulous planning and dedicated effort can yield significant achievements. Pradesh also acknowledged his sister, Kareena, for her emotional and physical support during his most difficult period.
Beyond his family, Pradesh received invaluable support from mentors and teachers. Educators from Anna Regina Secondary, Abram Zuil Secondary, and Charity Secondary contributed significantly to his academic achievements. They not only guided him in the classroom but also offered patience, understanding, and belief in his potential. Teachers like Ms. Shevon became trusted confidants, while others supported him as he navigated the pressures of late assignments and countless questions. His headmaster, Sir Laljeet, also played a pivotal role, encouraging Pradesh to aim higher and believe in his abilities.

Despite the support, Pradesh knew that success ultimately depended on his own efforts. A turning point came in Form 4, when he realised that the CSEC exams were fast approaching. From that moment, he committed himself to effective time management, balancing his studies with necessary rest and reflection.
By the time Form 5 arrived, Pradesh was in full stride. Sleepless nights and coffee-fuelled study sessions became the norm. He bonded with his classmates over shared struggles and victories, forming a camaraderie that motivated them all to excel.
When the results were announced, Pradesh’s hard work paid off beyond his expectations. Achieving an incredible 24 Grade Ones and 2 Grade Twos, he emerged not only as the best graduating student but also as a symbol of perseverance and dedication.

For Pradesh, however, the journey wasn’t just about grades—it was about proving to himself and others that success is achievable regardless of where one starts. He admitted he wasn’t always the “smart guy” buried in books but rather someone who learned to adapt, grow, and push past limitations.
Pradesh wants young people to understand that success isn’t about perfection. It’s about resilience, determination, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the road seems uncertain. He attributes his success to his mindset and the strong support system he had around him