HIGHER EDUCATION PATHWAYS AND TIPS BRIEFING INSPIRES USM SIXTH FORM STUDENTS

NIBONG TEBAL, 26 October 2026 - The Director’s Office of Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus (KKTSS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in collaboration with the Sixth Form Centre (PPTE), organised a Higher Education Pathways and Tips Briefing today for students enrolled in the Sixth Form Programme within the USM campus.

The briefing featured an invited speaker from the School of Chemical Engineering, Professor Dr. Mohd Azmier Ahmad, who shared guidance and motivation to help students prepare for examinations and plan their educational pathways towards higher education.

In his sharing session, he emphasised the importance of developing a positive mindset, self-discipline and perseverance in achieving success.

He also encouraged students to manage their time effectively, respect their parents and teachers, and make use of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) as a learning aid.

Students were also reminded to choose friends who share similar goals, work collaboratively in their studies, and select academic programmes based on their interests and academic achievements.

He added that success also depends on communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

Meanwhile, USM PPTE Chief Coordinator, Sharifah Che Hassan, emphasised that Sixth Form education is an important phase in developing maturity of thought, discipline and resilience before progressing to undergraduate studies.

She also reminded students to establish clear goals, discuss their educational choices with their parents, and maintain good conduct when interacting with teachers and peers.

Students were further encouraged to ask questions, value knowledge and seize available opportunities to achieve their aspirations.

At the same event, Senior Assistant Registrar of the KKTSS Director’s Office, Mohd Kamil Ashar, shared his personal and career journey to motivate students to persevere despite financial constraints and life's challenges.

He emphasised that the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) pathway is not a second-class option, but rather a viable route to university admission and a promising career.

He also urged students to demonstrate their capabilities through academic achievements to ensure the continued development of the Sixth Form Programme at USM.

In addition, he advised students to select academic programmes based on their interests when submitting applications through the UPU system, ensure that all required documents are complete, submit their applications within the stipulated period, and seek assistance whenever they encounter difficulties.

The programme is expected to help Sixth Form students establish clearer goals, build self-confidence and make better preparations for pursuing higher education.

Text: Nor Hidayati Zolkornain (Industrial Training Student) / Photos: Muhammad Taufik Abdul Rahman