Devon Hunter (right), sponsorship manager for Cable & Wireless, presents the Cable & Wireless Award for Best Overall Performance in the 2006 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations to Kevin Williams, of Glenmuir High School, during the Jamaica Association of Principals of Secondary Schools CXC National Awards, held at Merl Grove High School, St. Andrew, last Friday. -Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer

Kevin Williams of Glenmuir High School, Clarendon, last Friday walked away with the Cable & Wireless Award for the best overall performing student in the 2006 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

Chantal Loncle, of Campion College, was the second-highest performer while Javed Jaghai of St. Mary High School was the third-best performer in the CSEC examinations.

"I am so surprised, I really wasn't expecting it," an elated Kevin told The Gleaner following the Jamaica Association of Principals of Secondary Schools, CXC National Awards, held at Merl Grove High School, St. Andrew.

10 distinctions

Kevin, who received The Gleaner Honour Award for Education last year, is currently pursuing mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry and communications studies at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Level (CAPE).

Kevin, who got 10 distinctions, attributed his success to his supportive teachers, family, as well as the hard work he put in.

Meanwhile, Wrenford Thaffe of St. Mary High School received the JAPSS award for best performance in science.

Jhenerr Hines, former student of Montego Bay High School for Girls, received the RBTT Award for best performance in business subjects.

Campion Collegereceived awards for the top school in CSEC and CAPE.

Maxine Henry-Wilson, Minister of Education and Youth, said the CXC is an august institution that can compete with examination bodies across the world.

"After 26 years, there is no doubt that CXC is well rooted," she said. "CXC is recognised as a highly-acceptable and attainable examination."