Pursuing a PhD is a significant academic undertaking that involves in-depth research and the production of original scholarly work. With that said, a high level of commitment and dedication is needed to ensure that you’re able to complete the course. Just over the weekend, news broke out that a 79-year-old man has successfully completed his PhD course!
79yo M’sian grandpa successfully graduates with a PhD!
According to local newspaper Sinar Harian, Dr. Muharam Awang, a 79-year-old retired teacher has completed his PhD in Malay Literature at UKM! Prior to retiring, the man was assigned to teach pengajian am to form 6 students.
The father of 7 and grandfather of 17 shared that throughout his journey, he has faced plenty of challenges, however, these trials and turbulences did not stop him from learning.
Source: Sinar Harian
“My biggest challenge was doing work online. I’m not familiar with computers and it was hard for me to see”, adding that he suffered from blurry vision, having to undergo surgery to remove his cataracts.
As his vision was recovering, the man had to face tight submission dates for his thesis. Thankfully, with the help of one of his children, he was able to complete his thesis.
Support from his family kept him going!
Source: George Pak (Pexels)
“I had to get help from one of my children, he is based in Johor and helped me type out my thesis”, he said.
Recalling his PhD journey, he shared that he is very thankful he was for his family for supporting his dreams and aspirations. Following his completion of PhD, Dr. Muharam Awang was awarded his scroll by UKM Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali at the 51st UKM Convocation Ceremony.
Completing your tertiary education is never easy but this man has truly become the best example of the saying, “when there’s a will, there’s a way”. Congratulations on completing your PhD studies, Dr. Muharam Awang!
Tap here to give us a ‘Like’ on Facebook and stay up-to-date on the latest news.
