USM PENANG, 24 November 2024 – The USM 62nd Convocation Ceremony resumes this afternoon with the Eleventh Session at the nostalgic Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP) here.

Some 690 graduands who had undergone their studies in Distance Education (Science); Distance Education (Arts); Housing, Building and Planning; and Pharmaceutical Sciences received their scrolls from the USM Pro-Chancellor, Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Zulkefli A. Hassan, who presided over the Eleventh Session.

“As graduands at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels and coming from various fields, all of you have been endowed with the necessary knowledge and skills that could be utilised in facing the real world that is filled with both opportunities and challenges,” said Zulkefli.

“Don’t ever doubt your value and self-worth, as the world needs individuals who can think critically, do their tasks with integrity, and with quality, as all of you represent.

“Graduands from the School of Housing, Building, and Planning would have the responsibility of providing sustainable and comfortable housing for every community, and to ensure wellbeing of all.

“Graduands of Science and Pharmaceutical Sciences have been well-equipped with the knowledge to understand the natural world and the world of medicine, and play the role to bring progress to the health sector.

“The graduands of Arts, would not only assist in safeguarding heritage and culture, but also in nurturing critical thinking practices in society, that would contribute to social and intellectual growth,” he said further.

He added, “In front of you now lies various opportunities and challenges. As graduands who have been ‘prepped’ with the necessary knowledge and experience, now is the time to face the world head on.”

“Success does not come on a silver platter; it demands continuous effort and the courage to rise after encountering a failure. Education is a lifelong experience. In a world that is constantly changing, we need to have the determination and desire to continue acquiring knowledge and seeking new opportunities. Success is a journey, and you are now on the apex of that journey,” he stressed.

Zulkefli continued, “You are now stepping out with a degree that not only symbolises your academic achievements, but also reflects the strength of your character. You have proven that with hard work, perseverance and determination, there is no obstacle that you cannot overcome. Now, as an alumni member of Universiti Sains Malaysia, you carry the name of your ‘alma mater’ wherever you go.”

He further said, “Keep in mind to take each step forward and take it as an opportunity to make an impact, to build meaningful connections, and to make use of the knowledge that you have gained to be beneficial to everyone. We at Universiti Sains Malaysia are truly proud of your achievement and would continue to pray for everyone’s success in all aspects of life.”

“As you move ahead in life, bring along with you good universal values, such as integrity, diligence and excellence which have been nurtured during your academic journey.

“Being able to earn an academic degree is a manifestation of your amazing IQ level. But to achieve success in your career, it would require you to also learn, understand and practice three other types of Intelligence. They are, EQ (Emotional Quotient/Intelligence), CQ (Contextual Quotient/Intelligence), and if possible, PQ (Physical Quotient/Intelligence) too,” he said.  

In ending his speech, Zulkefli said, “Once again, CONGRATULATIONS to all! You have DONE WELL. I pray that you will find success and achieve your dreams in the future. Thank you.”

Also present at the Eleventh Session were USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed; member of USM Board of Governors; Deputy Vice-Chancellors; members of USM Senate; and key university officials.

The 62nd USM Convocation Ceremony is now commencing at the USM Main Campus from 19-26 November 2024.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: MPRC USM