When I read the headlines, 'Sarawak government offers free full-time higher education to Sarawakians' I was very happy. Not that I am a Sarawakian but I rejoiced for all Sarawakians. Kudos to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg! This is really a far-sighted and bold move.
Indeed, education is of utmost importance to any nation. Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And learning, whether formal or informal is a lifelong process. We must all continue in this process of learning to keep up with the times we are living in.
During the Covid pandemic lock down, many have learnt new skills at home like cooking and baking. Others have ventured into small online businesses and the like. With technology evolving so fast, those who refused to learn and upskill themselves are just left behind. How many of us seniors are fumbling and at our wits end when it comes to using smartphones and computers? Many have joked that these gadgets are now smarter than their old brains! I must agree to that as at times I still fumble with many things like using e-wallets, e-ticketing, online this and that. So, I have to learn and keep on learning.
Starting next year, Sarawak will fund free education for 64 selected courses at state-owned institutions. Whether you are seeking to do your first degree or already working but hoping to upskill, do be on the look-out for more information so that you can grab this blessing, be trained and equipped to further improve your state. I am sure many non-Sarawakians are now green with envy at your blessing.
For the past few years, many Malaysian students have been absent from their SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) exam due to work commitments, family financial pressures and also the lure of lifestyle choices. This is indeed sad as education is key to personal growth and development. May our young people be awakened to the importance of education. I am sure many who have left school decades ago would have forgotten about the Math or Science formula or what we have learnt in school. However, what has remained in us is the impact of our education – having an open mind, confidence, hope and peace.
God bless Sarawak!
Mei Wong is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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