NST journalist receives master’s degree from UMP

PAYA BESAR, 5 November 2022 - Having time constraints for family and uncertain work times has caused Alagesh s/o Theruvarul Nathan, 42, to postpone his desire to further his study at a higher level for several times.

However, the reporter for the News Straits Times (NST) in Kuantan said that thanks to the support from family members, it is easier for him to juggle his time between his career, everyday life and family.

Alagesh received a Master of Science in Technology-Integrated Language Studies delivered by the Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Tan Sri Dato’ Sri (Dr.) Abi Musa Asaa’ri Mohamed Nor at the recent UMP 17th Convocation Ceremony.

He said it was not easy to decide at first, given the work in the field and the uncertain times.

“I started studying in 2019 and finished early this year.

“At that time, the country was facing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The challenge is not only to live the new normal for daily life but also to work and study at the same time,” he said.

He was very grateful to his supervisor, Dr. Wan Jumani Fauzi, a lecturer of the Centre for Modern Languages (CML) and other lecturers who provided a lot of encouragement and guidance.

“At times when I was too occupied with work, she would often call me to remind and help me to complete my thesis,” he said.

“I also want to express my appreciation for the support of all CML lecturers and fellow students, without whom it would have been difficult to finish my study.

“During my student years, I split my time for work, completing assignments, attending evening classes and preparing for exams,” he said.

However, more important is the family support especially his wife, Dr. S. Bavani, 39 and children, Mishaline Sai, 8 and Sai Taarun Nathan, 5.

Likewise, his friends in the media industry who gave him a lot of encouragement for him to graduate successfully.

By: Mimi Rabita Abdul Wahit, Corporate Communications Division, Chancellery Department

Translation by: Dr. Rozaimi Abu Samah, Engineering College/Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology