KOTA SAMARAHAN: Juggling full-time jobs, family responsibilities and studies, 11 career women have proven that perseverance leads to success.
Their hard work paid off as Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), through its Faculty of Education, Language and Communication (FPBK), celebrated the first batch of graduates from the Master of Education in Learning Sciences programme yesterday (Nov 3).
The one-year programme produced 11 female professionals, including lecturers, international school teachers, language officers and librarians, all completing their studies while working full-time.
FPBK recently held a high-tea gathering at Imperial Hotel to celebrate the pioneering cohort — a moment that marked both pride and relief for the graduates.
Programme coordinator Dr Chuah Kee Man said the course was designed for educators and professionals who wish to strengthen their understanding of technology-driven and evidence-based learning.
“The programme balances theory with real-world application, motivating participants to explore innovative learning solutions that reflect the needs of 21st-century education,” he said.
Faculty dean Dr Dilah Tuah congratulated the graduates, describing them as an inspiration for their ability to manage multiple roles while achieving academic excellence.
“We are proud of these women who managed to balance work, family and study. Their success reflects the strength and resilience of women in education,” he said.
One of the graduates, Kartina Sahari, who serves as a secondary school senior assistant, said the coursework helped her apply AI-based teaching practices effectively in class.
“The assignments were practical and applicable to my work. The lecturers were also very understanding of our schedules as full-time professionals,” she said.
Meanwhile, Pung Cheng Hui reflected on her journey of completing the master’s degree as part of her commitment to professional growth.
She said the programme’s structure suited her as a full-time employee, offering flexible class schedules and strong online support from dedicated lecturers.
Another graduate, Tiffany Emilly Tingki, a teacher at Sarawak Foundation International Secondary School (YSISS), said managing lessons by day and completing assignments at night tested her endurance.
Her dissertation explored the use of AI-based simulations in science education — an area she believes will shape the future of classroom learning.
Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), the Master of Education (Learning Sciences) is the only interdisciplinary programme of its kind in Malaysia, integrating cognitive science, instructional technology and pedagogical research.
The programme offers two intakes annually — in February and October — with scholarships and fee discounts available for the upcoming February 2026 admission.
