Top student Richard ready for public service

By LIBERT SANGUNDI
ONE way Richard Deregi thought of repaying his family for supporting his education was to achieve the highest marks and pass exams with distinction at university – to make them proud.
“The financial burden on my family motivated me to do my best in my studies, constantly reminding myself to have determination and perseverance to succeed, and make them proud.”
During the Pacific Adventist University graduation last month where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities majoring in English communication and Geography degree, the 23-year-old from Delta Fly district also got an award for scoring the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) in the Social Science Humanities Department. He topped his class in the Social Science stream.
Because of the high-level of competition in his class, Richard was surprised when won the award.
“I was surprised when my name was called to receive the highest GPA award. Knowing the competition and (the caliber of) other students, I was not expecting to receive the award. But I am honored to receive it.
“I had to work hard to be the best. And the result is just overwhelming.”
Richard fully understands that commitment and hard work lead to success.
“I committed my time to study and completed tasks on time. I managed my time wisely to complete assignments, study, perform leadership roles and other extra-curricular activities.”
He was also awarded the Union Mission Leadership award for participating in mission work while studying.
“I was privileged to receive the PNG Union Mission Leadership award because I had been participating in mission work, putting God first in everything I do.”
He faced difficulties at university, especially on finance.
“I experienced difficulties which tried to distract me from my studies. One was finance. Every semester, I had to stress about whether I had been financially cleared to register for class.”
Richard began his education journey at Sir Ted Diro Elementary School, then to primary school where he completed Grade Eight. He then attended the Tokarara Secondary School where he completed Grade 12 and was offered a space at PAU in 2020 to pursue the degree programme.
“I was fortunate to be accepted at PAU for the programme I had applied for. I was overwhelmed when I saw my name picked to study at PAU. It gave me a sense of purpose and hope for the future.”

“ The financial burden on my family motivated me to do my best in my studies, constantly reminding myself to have determination and perseverance to succeed, and make them proud.”

His academic achievements would not have been possible without the help and support of others especially his family members.
“I thank my mother for her endless support and prayers that kept me going. Also my elder brother Winford Deregi for his constant assistance to meet my daily needs. All the support pushed me to channel all my energy towards my study. It produced this result.”
Elder brother Winford Deregi was proud to see him graduate, saying their investment in him had not gone to waste.
Richard also thanked Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai for providing students school fees last year.
He plans to work in public sector so that he can help people in need. The university’s motto of “education to serve” motivated him too.
His advice to students is to believe in themselves and not allow other people to discourage them.
“You know your strength and weakness, and in all things, acknowledge God and he will direct you.”