| Wani Roslan |
IT WAS a proud moment for hundreds graduates of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) as they received their certificates during the university’s 8th Hafl Al-Takharruj (Convocation Ceremony) yesterday which took place at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.
Some of the graduates shared with the Bulletin their experience throughout their time at the university as well as the challenges they had to face to achieve success in their respective fields of study.
Dr Hajah Norasimah binti Haji Latip, who graduated with a PhD in Arabic Language, said that she feels very happy to have completed her studies and expressed her gratitude to Allah the Almighty for guiding her over the line.
“If I have the opportunity, I would like to continue my studies and pursue my research studies to get to the professor level,” said Dr Hajah Norasimah, who works as an Education Officer at Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School.
“Throughout my PhD studies, I encountered many challenges and obstacles. However with the support of my husband and family, I was able to complete my Doctorate research.”
She added, “My advice to the students who are still studying and doing research is to continue working hard and of course, even though research study is not easy as we must diligently ask questions and communicate with the supervisors or lecturers.”
Muhd Abdul Afiq bin Muhd Sahari, a Master’s Degree graduate in History and Islamic Civilisation, shared that throughout his studies at the university, he had to double his efforts just to survive the journey. He said that he will and soon be embarking on a new adventure – his PhD studies.
Giving words of advice for his fellow students, he said, “Those who are planning to further their studies at Master’s level, they have to strengthen themselves and never give up because all the effort will pay off once they graduate.”
Another Master’s Degree graduate, Ahmad Remanda bin Muhd Kholil from Indonesia, is similarly planning to pursue Doctorate studies.
Ahmad Remanda, who has completed a master’s degree in Usuluddin, said, “I am delighted with this success, and Insya Allah, I will further my studies by doing a PhD in Usuluddin again at UNISSA. If everything goes smoothly, I will begin my studies in January next year.”
“I’d like to thank my lecturers, members of the Dean’s faculty and colleagues for their support throughout my studies. They’ve definitely helped smoothen my journey here at the university,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Afif Afnan bin Roslan, a graduate in the Bachelor of Syariah (Fiqh and Judiciary) , beamed with pride as he recalled his struggles especially during his first year of university.
“The past four years were challenging. In year one, we were still struggling to cope up with the subjects and assignments that needed to be completed in a short period of time, and in year four we were given a project to handle and other tasks as well,” he said.
“With the support from my parents, families, friends and lecturers, Insya Allah, I will continue my studies at the Master’s level to gain further knowledge if the opportunity presents itself.”
Another Degree graduate, Nabilah binti Haji Bujang, who also completed the Bachelor of Syariah (Fiqh and Judiciary), was visibly filled with excitement upon receiving her degree certificate.
“Receiving the graduate certificate has made all the hard work for the past four years worth it. As the young and future generation of Brunei, now is the time for us to continue the development of our beloved country and to realise our nation’s Brunei Vision 2035 based on the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy,” she said.