USM PENANG, 25 November 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 62nd Convocation Ceremony continues this morning with the Twelfth Session.

Chaired by USM Pro-Chancellor, Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Zulkefli A. Hassan, he conferred the degrees to 710 graduands from the School of Educational Studies and School of Chemical Sciences.

He began the session by congratulating the graduands from both academic schools on their success. He then stated that an essential aspect of today’s graduates is the ability to think critically in analysing complex problems.

“In today’s world that is constantly changing, the skill is becoming more important to have.

“The graduands from Educational Studies would be responsible in moulding the minds of the future, through critical and creative approaches in their teaching.

“Meanwhile, graduands of Chemical Sciences would need to deal with scientific issues through approaches using science and technology in an ethical and practical manner,” he said.

Zulkefli added, the experience in learning at USM has provided you with the skills to identify the cause of problems, understanding issues from various perspectives and creating solutions which are effective, innovative and impactful to society.

“However, the worth of a graduate is not only measured by the technical achievements, but also from the aspects of leadership, integrity, and ethics.

“Long-term success would require the presence of creativity, positive values, and integrity in earning the trust from society,” he stressed.  

He continued by saying, “In this constantly changing era, do practice learning as a lifestyle. Keep on learning, be it in higher education or skill-based courses to raise your marketability value.

“The ability to adapt to the latest technology and skills would provide you with a competitive advantage in today’s fast-moving world. Do not limit yourself within physical or geographical boundaries, as the world has now become more interconnected than before.      

“The convergence between globalisation and Information Technology has opened up huge opportunities for the world. Yet, at the same time, the world is becoming fiercely competitive because of it,” he said.

Zulkefli then urged the graduands to go and explore global opportunities, whether in the form of job positions, international cooperations, or cultural exchanges, which would not only expand their perspectives but could also increase their competitiveness. Learn to adapt with changes in technology, economy, and global challenges.

Before ending his speech, Zulkefli said, “I hope that all the graduands feted in today’s ceremony would become individuals who excel at work, and would continue contributing to society.

“May all of you be blessed and enlightened to make the best of decisions, as you become individuals who practice humility regardless of the heights of your achievements.

“Wherever you are or your involvement in whichever field, may all of you continue to be inspired towards excellence and to give the best, in return, to society.”

“Always remember the people who have supported you, as you seek success. Your parents, family members, friends and those who have been there for you all the while. Not forgetting all the academic and non-academic staff at USM who have also provided all of you with the needed assistance.

“CONGRATULATIONS and WELL DONE I wish to all of you. I pray that everyone will continue on the pathway of success and to excel in the future,” he said.

Those present at the Twelfth Session included 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