Tanjong malim: Lovely Sabana Augustine, a young woman from Tumpat, Kelantan, was officially registered as a Bachelor of Education student at Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) yesterday.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lovely, 20, who achieved a perfect 4.00 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination while attending Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Cabang Empat, Tumpat, was accompanied by her mother, E. P. Mek Kenui, a 56-year-old cleaner, and other family members during the registration. Her two older brothers, both employed in food establishments in Johor, were also present to bid her farewell as she embarked on her educational journey.
Lovely, of Kadazan-Siamese descent, expressed her joy and aspirations to study diligently, aiming to become an educator and improve her family's circumstances. She conveyed her gratitude for the support she received, stating, "I am deeply touched and grateful to everyone for the contributions made to me. May your kindness be rewarded with blessings." She further expressed hope for continued support and prayers as she navigates the challenges of life.
Lovely had received interview invitations for two Bachelor's degree programmes, namely Malay Language Education and Moral Education, and ultimately secured a place in the Moral Education programme. Meanwhile, UPSI Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Dr Norkhalid Salimin expressed hope that Lovely would actively engage in both academic and extracurricular activities, highlighting the university's supportive environment and facilities.
Earlier media reports on August 17 highlighted the financial challenges Lovely faced in enrolling at UPSI, following the viral spread of her story on Facebook. At the time, she also needed a laptop to aid her studies. UPSI identified her situation and took proactive measures to assist her in pursuing her university education.
Lovely's late father, Augustine Sandalun, who was a soldier stationed at Lok Kawi Camp, Sabah, passed away from a stroke on November 10, 2017, when Lovely was just 11 years old.