Dennis (centre), assisted by Morris (left), presents the incentive to one of the students.
LONG SAN, Baram: SMK Temenggong Datuk Lawai Jau in the interior of Baram has proven it can outperform schools in urban areas despite shortcomings like lack of facilities and amenities.
At the presentation of PT3 and SPM incentives to students on Friday, principal Rechard Emang disclosed that the School Average Grade (GPS) improved significantly from 60.6 in 2015 to 5.51 in 2016.
Recalling that the school achieved 5.32 in GPS last year; Rechard said: “Among the five secondary schools in Baram district with good achievement, we came second after SMK Long Lama. In third to fifth places were SMK Telang Usan, SMK Marudi and SMK Tinjar respectively.”
The school is in 73rd position among 183 secondary schools throughout the state.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau who presented the incentives to SPM top achievers, said: “I believe the success of the school is due to the spirit, commitment and dedication of teachers, non-academic staff, students and parents.”
Although the school has many shortcomings, their good performance in SPM examination is an indication that they are better than some urban schools equipped with teaching and learning facilities.
“Despite weaknesses, you strive to do your best. Despite facing many challenges and hardships, you fly high. The future is in your hands so be prepared with all the knowledge and skills if you want to be successful and bring change not only in your own life, but that of your family and the community around you,” he added.
He said the school, teachers and parent did their best to motivate and support students.
“Although the amount might be small and not justify the efforts, we cannot give you more… see it as fuel to burn the spirit and determination to pursue. We do whatever we can for education.”
Present at the ceremony were Long San community leader Lucia Paya and Parent-Teacher Association chairman Morris Lawai.