USM PENANG, 13 October 2023 – Mohd Iqbal Ahamat, a doctoral student from the School of Educational Studies (PPIP) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently achieved a significant milestone in his academic journey by winning a prestigious grant for his doctoral research in language education.

The grant, provided by The International Research Foundation for English Language Education (TIRF), stands as a testament to Mohd Iqbal’s exceptional contributions to the field.

Mohd Iqbal's research focus is centred on English language material development and the implementation of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for primary school-level education.

With the project entitled "Designing a Malaysian Framework for Developing CEFR-Aligned English Language Material for Primary Schools," Mohd Iqbal's work is set to make a substantial impact in the realm of English language education.

The highly-competitive TIRF Doctoral Dissertation Grants (DDG) programme is a global platform where doctoral students around the world compete for funding to advance their research endeavours and successfully complete their doctorates. In the 2023 DDG cycle, Mohd Iqbal emerged as one of the distinguished awardees.

Last month, TIRF made a grand announcement, sharing the outcomes of this year's DDG programme, whereby this initiative is made possible through the generous support of TIRF, Cambridge English (a division of the esteemed Cambridge University Press & Assessment), the British Council, and Educational Testing Service, Inc., in addition to contributions from numerous individual donors.

Mohd Iqbal's accomplishment does not only highlight his dedication to advancing language education, but also underscores the academic excellence fostered at USM.

According to TIRF Chief Operating Officer, Ryan Damerow, TIRF is a non-profit organisation based in the United States. The foundation is dedicated towards advancing research in the field of English language education, as it also seeks to improve the lives of individuals by supporting research initiatives that contribute to the understanding and enhancement of language education practices and policies worldwide.

“TIRF collaborates with various partners to provide funding and resources for research projects that address critical issues in language education. The foundation efforts aim to drive positive change and innovation in the field, ultimately benefitting language learners, educators, and communities globally,” said Ryan.

Ryan further explains that the DDG programme is one of TIRF's flagship initiatives. It is a highly competitive global competition designed to support doctoral students in their research endeavours relating to English language education.

“The programme provides financial grants to doctoral candidates, enabling them to conduct in-depth research and complete their doctoral dissertations,” he added.

For more information on the TIRF and DDG programe, kindly browse the website: https://www.tirfonline.org/.

The USM community extended heartfelt congratulations to Mohd Iqbal for this well-deserved recognition.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi