Fijian Student Benefits from Fiji and Malaysia’s Collaboration in Education Sector

The collaboration between Fiji and Malaysia in the education sector is generating opportunities for Fijian students to pursue educational programs specializing in Aviation and Technology. The success of such programs is demonstrated through the accomplishments of Mr. Abraar Altaaf Khan, a Fijian student who has graduated with the First Class honors in Bachelor of Aircraft Engineering Technology in Avionics upon completing 4 years of studies at the Kuala Lumpur University in Malaysia.

To recognise this achievement for Fiji, a program was organised collaboratively by the Malaysia High Commission in Fiji with the Fijian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present the graduation certificate conferred by His Majesty the King of Malaysia, as the patron of the University of Kuala Lumpur. This was also in consideration that Mr. Khan, has returned to Fiji upon completion of his studies last year, however he wasn’t able to attend the graduation due to travel restrictions worldwide.

At the first of such program recently held at the Malaysian High Commission in Fiji, it was an emotional moment for Mr. Khan and his parents as they witnessed the presentation of the graduation certificate. They couldn’t hold back their tears of joy and gratitude for all the support that has led to the fulfillment of this achievement.

Speaking at the occasion, Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Mr. Ilham Tuah Illias congratulated Mr. Khan for his hardwork and dedication in completing his studies.

“We welcome you as an alumni of Kuala Lumpur University and I also hope that you would be a role model, as an ambassador in education for the youths of Fiji to exemplify. I will be communicating with Kuala Lumpur University to seek the possibility to offer scholarships to deserving Fijians towards human capacity building development of this nation.

“Mr. Abraar Khan, like so many other graduates of Malaysian institutions is a testimony that with guidance, conducive surroundings and strong support, children can grow up and excel in studies and later serve their country of origin with distinction,” High Commissioner Illias said.

Reflecting on his experience in Malaysia, Mr. Khan said he is grateful he had the opportunity to not only pursue his studies in Avionics, but also to learn about Malaysia’s diverse culture and language. He said he was able to capitalize on this education opportunity through the TELS when he completed his studies from University of the South Pacific.

He said “Avionics Engineering” is a unique area of expertise that offers unlimited opportunities not only in the aviation industry but it branches into dynamic generation of technologies.

“I am determined to now further my studies in Avionics at Masters Level and plan to use that knowledge and help with the further development of Fiji’s aviation industry. I am proud to have represented my country in Malaysia and I am grateful for all the support given to me while I was there, in successfully completing my studies.”

“It’s through Fiji’s advanced education sector that students in Fiji are able to have equal access to education opportunities to pursue their higher education abroad in specialised field of studies. I thank the Malaysian High Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Fiji for organising this program that recognises the importance of education in the development of our nation. I hope that those students who aspire to achieve their higher education, are able to maximise on such education opportunities,” Mr Khan said.

Expressing similar sentiments, Mr. Khan’s mother Mrs. Yazameen Bi Hussein conveyed her appreciation for the assistance given to her son to complete his studies, thereby enabling him to pursue his personal and professional aspirations with confidence.

“I thank all those who have supported my son to get this far. We acknowledge the thought that has gone into organising this graduation certificate presentation program. All the sacrifices have finally paid off and Altaaf has graduated with great results and we are very proud of his achievement,” Mrs. Hussein said.