KUCHING: The new academic session at Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS) began with inspiring stories of resilience and determination as students from different walks of life converged to pursue their academic dreams.
Among them is Wan Afnan Faiz Wan Hasiman, 18, from Sekinchan, Selangor, who almost gave up his opportunity to study at PKS due to personal constraints.
However, with the unwavering prayers of his mother and assistance from dedicated volunteers, Afnan is now officially a student at the Department of Petrochemical Engineering.
“I’m excited to start a new chapter in a new place and state.
“My hope is to achieve excellent results, change my future, and make my family proud,” he said with quiet determination.
Another standout is Kamarul Ariffin Marsit, 43, a GIS officer at the Department of Statistics Malaysia, returning to the classroom after 18 years of public service, who took advantage of a government scholarship programme for support staff.
He enrolled in the Diploma in Geomatics, a field closely aligned with his current profession.
“I want to set an example for my children that education is the key to success, no matter the circumstances,” he said, adding that his family’s support has been his greatest strength throughout this journey.
Afnan and Kamarul are just two of the 1,169 new students who recently completed Minggu Transformasi Siswa (MTS), a week-long orientation programme designed to help freshmen adapt to the academic and social environment at PKS.
The programme provides students with valuable insights into campus life, learning culture, and opportunities to forge new friendships.
Their stories reflect the essence of lifelong learning, proof that the pursuit of knowledge transcends age, background, or obstacles. With courage and determination, a brighter future is always within reach.
