The girls all know the gowns are there for them IF they pass their exams. For young girls who literally have near nothing, these gowns are priceless to them so they are all working very hard at school to graduate.
Even the younger girls can't wait to finish school but they must have an excellent attendance record as well.
When I was at school, if I passed my exams I would get one present and it inspired me to do well......Encouragement was all these kids needed.