Penang: Aii’na Mardiah Din’s journey at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was profoundly shaped by the loss of her father during her first year, a pivotal moment that fueled her determination to improve her family’s situation. Her perseverance and dedication were recognized as she received the Anugerah Pelajaran Diraja (Royal Education Award) under the Bumiputera category at USM’s 63rd convocation ceremony.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aii’na Mardiah, a 24-year-old Bachelor of Education (TESOL) graduate, initially struggled academically. However, her father’s passing from prostate cancer three years ago became a catalyst for her academic success. As the 12th of 15 siblings, she was driven by her father’s dream of seeing his children achieve higher education.
Aii’na shared her aspirations to pursue a doctoral degree and become a lecturer, acknowledging the challenges she faced. To support her studies, she balanced various part-time jobs, including tutoring, working at a watch shop, and running an online business. During a press conference at the USM convocation ceremony, she expressed gratitude for her family’s support and her mother’s prayers.
She reflected on her father’s absence, stating, ‘If my father were still here, I’m sure he would be happy and proud. Yet even with this accomplishment, I doubt I could ever feel completely fulfilled knowing he never got to see it.’ Aii’na hails from Kota Bharu and is the daughter of Zaitun Deraman, 54.
Another inspiring story from the convocation is that of G. Valli, a USM Gold Medal recipient in the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category. The 24-year-old Bachelor of Technology (Honours) graduate, now pursuing a Master’s in Environmental Technology, overcame the challenges of losing an eye to cancer at the age of two. Despite the difficulties, she adapted to her circumstances and excelled in her studies.
USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed announced that 9,347 students will receive their degrees during the ceremony, presided over by USM Chancellor, the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail. The convocation will see 865 graduates receiving PhDs, 3,501 Master’s degrees, 4,934 Bachelor’s degrees, and 47 Diplomas in Nursing.
Additionally, Petronas Property advisor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Urban and Regional Planning. Maimunah, a former Kuala Lumpur mayor, has made significant contributions to urban planning and sustainable development globally.
Prof Abdul Rahman further informed that Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Datuk Dr Zulkefli A Hassan will preside over the second session, with sessions three to fourteen overseen by Tan Sri Dr Ahmad Tajuddin Ali and Datuk Seri Awang Adek Hussin.