An air of excitement yesterday swept through the family of brain-box Eric Manzi Rugamba as news filtered that he had emerged the best 2008 Ordinary Level candidate country-wide

"I always wanted to be on top and become an engineer. Wow! This is huge,” the 15 year old Rugamba said shortly after The New Times broke the news to him.

"Who knows; maybe I will be  President one day too,” Rugamba, from Green Hills Academy said excitedly.

He said he worked very hard. "I knew I would do well basing on my past record,” he said as his proud mother lifted high her shoulders.

Rugamba also emerged best in Mathematics and Physics country-wide and passed in division one scoring seven aggregates-average marks of 84.2.

He later closed his eyes and recalled his Primary life in 2005.
"Yes, I did well. I was second best country-wide (in primary leaving examinations),” Rugamba recalls.

He says his parents were the most motivating factor behind his good performance. "They instilled in me the discipline to work hard. I owe them a lot,” Rugamba adds.

His mother, Ansilla Akayezu was at first speechless. "I don’t know what to say. God is great,” she said, flashing a cheerful smile.
The mother confirmed she knew her son would do well. "He is responsible and resourceful.”

But Rugamba’s father was not around to share the joy with him. He died recently. "I wish he were alive,” Rugamba says sadly.

Manzi is now undergoing through a Cambridge course for which he will sit for the exams in October. He wants to compete internationally.

"My message to fellow students is to work hard. It is only those who work hard who succeed in life,” he said in a mature tone.

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