CSEC top boy says hardwork and dedication helped him to succeed

Topping the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Exams 23 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos, Alex Muntaz says hard work and dedication were the determining factors for his achievement.

Muntaz, 17, hails from Bush Lot on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two and has secured the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) School of the year 2022-2023 title for the Anna Regina Multilateral School.

During the CXC award ceremony held at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday evening, he said overcoming challenges while preparing for and sitting the exam has taught him tremendous lessons that will remain with him throughout his life.

“I was able to increase the breadth of my knowledge and attain a variety of abilities including critical thinking, problem solving and study techniques.

“It took a tremendous deal of dedication, perseverance and motivation to remain focused and steady,” Muntaz said.

But this is not Muntaz’s first time in the spotlight for his academic achievements. In 2018, he was the top student at the National Grade Six Assessment. Muntaz was described by Principal Rooplall Lalgeet as a hardworking and compassionate, and loving person. He said Muntaz has always shown signs of success and dedication to his studies and the school.

Meanwhile, Muntaz said the relevant educational bodies ought to be recognised for their tremendous efforts in prioritising the well-being of students.

“This year despite all challenges and hurdles the Caribbean examination council, ministries of education and schools across the regions worked assiduously to ensure that candidates across the region received the best education to progress in their academic journey and life at large.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Ministry of Education in Guyana for all of its outstanding efforts to improve educational standards, expand educational possibilities and consistently prioritise the welfare of students,” he said.

He was also deemed this year’s Most Outstanding Technical/Vocational Studies student. He advised students who will sit these exams in the future to study hard but also maintain a healthy balance between studies and extracurriculars.

“Keep working hard, give it your all, and be innovative in all that you do to make sure you succeed.

“To maintain a well-balanced existence keep in mind to take good care of your health and wellbeing to participate in extracurricular activities and do the things that you love,” Muntaz said.