UiTM graduates celebrate resilience, success at 100th convocation

KOTA SAMARAHAN (Dec 5): Despite obstacles posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak Campus graduates celebrated their triumphs yesterday at the university’s 100th convocation, proving that resilience and determination can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.

For 26-year-old Nurul Fatiha Dahlim, her journey to graduation was a shared story of motivation, support, and overcoming challenges.

Originally from Miri but now resides in Kuching, Nurul began her studies in the Bachelor in Office Systems Management (Hons) programme during the height of the pandemic in 2020.

Like many others, she had to adapt to online learning and navigate the difficulties of unreliable internet connections and the lack of face-to-face interactions with course mates.

“The biggest obstacle was the internet connection during online classes.

“Since everything was done virtually, it was hard to keep up with the lessons and group assignments, and we also barely knew each other,” she told reporters.

However, she remained steadfast and found solutions to access better connectivity, as well as building communication with her peers despite the distance.

Nurul shared that her 29-year-old husband, Luqman Hakim, who is a UiTM alumnus with a master’s degree, was her biggest supporter.

According to her, her husband encouraged her to continue her studies at UiTM after graduating from a private institution, citing the many advantages of the university including its robust postgraduate programmes and accessible resources.

“I encouraged her to enrol in UiTM because the university has strong postgraduate programmes, and as an alumnus, it is easy to get support or resources, including financial aid from family,” said Luqman.

He helped Nurul juggle her studies by offering guidance, especially on how to navigate the university’s systems, providing moral support, and ensuring she stayed focused on her goals.

They got married last year and have a daughter who was present with Nurul’s parents to witness her achievement.

Meanwhile, fellow graduate Mohamad Azizan Jamil, 27, from Limbang who was awarded ‘Anugerah Naib Chancelor’ in his Bachelor of Office System Management programme, also admitted that the pandemic posed similar hurdles.

“Classes and assignments were all conducted online, so it was definitely a challenging time.”
When asked about his future plans, he said he plans to work and save up before considering furthering his studies in the future.

“In fact, I’m already working now and saving up money.

“If the opportunity arises and I have enough savings, I hope to eventually pursue a master’s degree,” he shared.

Adding on, he stated that the financial aid for students announced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is crucial.

“It makes education more accessible, especially for students in rural areas who face additional financial hurdles,” he said.

The first session of the convocation yesterday was held at the Jubilee Hall here and officiated by UiTM vice-chancellor Datuk Abdul Wahab Aziz.

A total of 297 graduates received their scrolls, while 25 were awarded ‘Anugerah Naib Chancelor’.