In a significant milestone for Besi Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) Christian School, Alyssum Firisua has become the first student from the school to enrol in a Bachelor’s programme at the University of the South Pacific (USP).
This achievement marks a proud moment for the school, which is located in Besi community, in the hinterlands of North Malaita.
Established in 2003, Besi ACE faced criticism and skepticism about its ability to produce students who would make it to university.
Today, Alyssum’s success has answered those doubts, proving the school’s commitment to delivering quality education.
Abel Wanesuia, a young and passionate youth leader at Besi ACE, reflected on the journey of the school.
As a child, he frequently heard criticism questioning the future of Besi ACE students. But now, as a key figure in the school’s development, Wanesuia has played a pivotal role in creating a pathway for students from Besi ACE to access higher education.
His leadership has opened doors for the school, helping it bridge the gap between rural education and university programmes.
Besi ACE Christian School offers a unique and flexible educational approach through the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) programme.
Unlike traditional schooling systems, ACE operates on a self-paced learning model, where students have the freedom to progress through their lessons at their own speed.
This personalised method allows students to master one concept before moving on to the next, ensuring a solid foundation and understanding of each subject.
The ACE curriculum blends academic, spiritual, and physical education, providing students with a holistic education that nurtures both intellectual and personal growth.
The school’s ACE programme draws inspiration from New Zealand and Australia’s education systems, focusing on practical life skills, including agricultural knowledge and community development—skills that are particularly valuable in rural settings.
Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, promoting independence and self-discipline while still receiving guidance from dedicated teachers and mentors.
Besi ACE Christian School is also known for its unique approach to education. Unlike many other schools, Besi ACE students do not experience failure in their educational journey.
The school’s tailored programmes ensure that students who begin their studies at the school are able to complete their Year 13 in three to four years, a fast-track that leads to university admission.
Wanesuia, who is known for his dedication to the school and the community, emphasised the importance of government support for institutions like Besi ACE, which are committed to nurturing young leaders who can go on to succeed in higher education and beyond.
He urged government to recognise the potential of private schools like Besi ACE in shaping the future of the nation.
The vision of Besi ACE is clear: by the time students reach 17 or 18 years old, they should be ready to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at a university.
Alyssum Firisua, at just 18 years old, has realised this vision by successfully enrolling in USP’s Bachelor programme, making her the first of many to follow in her footsteps.
Her success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the teachers, staff, and leadership at Besi ACE Christian School.
The school’s ability to provide a strong foundation for its students is now being recognized on a national scale, proving that education, regardless of location, can lead to great achievements.
