In an extraordinary academic achievement, Miss Axleigh A.D. Akez has emerged as the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) top performer for Ottos Comprehensive School’s graduating class of 2025. The remarkable scholar achieved perfect scores across all nine examination subjects simultaneously, demonstrating exceptional intellectual capability and scholarly dedication.
Despite educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that prevented her from taking traditional Common Entrance Examinations, Akez transcended these systemic challenges through her unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Her educational journey, initially nurtured at St. John’s Lutheran School, flourished at Ottos Comprehensive where she consistently maintained honor roll status and earned the prestigious Prefect badge while sustaining superior academic performance throughout her tenure.
The graduating ceremonies recognized Akez as Salutatorian for achieving the second-highest academic standing in her class, resulting in her receiving numerous trophies, monetary awards, and gifts honoring her multidisciplinary excellence. Interestingly, the Valedictorian honor was awarded to another female student recognized for consistent improvement and extracurricular participation rather than pure academic achievement, highlighting the institution’s holistic evaluation approach.
Akez’s academic pedigree reflects a strong familial foundation in education. Her parents include Dr. Desrie Marisa Southwell, holder of multiple advanced degrees including a Doctorate in Business Administration, and Mr. Makinya A. Akez, an engineering graduate from Antigua State College.
The outstanding scholar has already commenced her tertiary education as a freshman in Business Studies at the newly established Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS). Educational authorities and community members have expressed profound admiration for Akez’s accomplishments, viewing them as inspirational for Antigua and Barbuda’s youth and a testament to educational resilience amid pandemic-related challenges.