USM PENANG, 7 December 2021 – A work that takes a certain number of years in the making will surely be celebrated once it’s completed. That is the norm for those who undergo their studies at many universities. The same goes for the ones who have completed their studies at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

In less than a week’s time, USM will be celebrating its 58th convocation ceremony for the Class of 2020 graduands.

This time however, the norm has changed, no thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amidst going through quarantine and recovery phases in dealing with the outbreak of the pandemic nationwide and worldwide, and with more people receiving the 2-dosage vaccination as well as the booster dose, USM now sees it fit to hold a ‘convo’, albeit for the group of students who was suppose to graduate last year but was deferred due to the pandemic.

Hence after getting the consent from the USM Chancellor, HRH The Raja Of Perlis, the university’s convocation working committee geared up for the big day.   

A major undertaking actually, considering the number of students on the graduating list, along with other aspects that needed consideration such as the budget, logistics, scheduling, official correspondence and publicity, lists of VIPs and other honoured guests, venue preparations, safety and healthcare of all involved, graduation attire and related matters, student movement on site, and transportation, are among some of the areas to be deliberated and coordinated on.

Not to forget, the strict COVID-19 SOPs will also be there for everyone to adhere to.

Here is where members of the 24 sub-committees play their roles. The sub-committees, comprising of close to 700 staff from the main and branch campuses, mostly administrators and support staff, will be involved in ensuring that the students will undergo a safe and smooth convocation ceremony.

“This is where the administrators can contribute to and facilitate the process,” said USM Registrar, Dr. Musa Ali, during a Webex session with the convo sub-committee members this morning.

“Though not directly involved in the teaching and learning process, administrators and support staff too can celebrate the success and make an impact on the future of the students as well as the institution,” added Musa, who is also the Chairperson of the USM 58^th Convocation working committee.

He also reminded everyone on the importance of having the convocation, that is to celebrate the achievement of the students, who form the main and most important stakeholder group of a university.

Lest it rains, here’s wishing for a smooth, new normal USM 58th Convocation ceremony to the 5,964 graduands.

Thanking everyone, including the academics and student volunteers, who have made it possible, time and again.

Congratulations to all!

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin / Photo: Mohd Fairus Bin Md Isa