MY MISSION TO DISCOVER THE TRUE SOUL OF ACADEMIA
In my own voyage through academia, I’ve come to realize that it’s not just a system of education; it’s a realm brimming with life, a living entity with a soul that infuses every lesson, discussion, and revelation. This is just a glimpse into my personal odyssey, a testament to the profound impact that the soul of academia has had on my intellectual growth, shaping my perspectives and fuelling my aspirations.
From the moment I stepped into the world of academia, I felt an unmistakable pull to uncover the depths of human understanding. As I reflect on my academic journey at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), I have found an extraordinary alignment between my personal values and the UTM’s mission, vision, and philosophy. These principles are not just words on paper; they are the very essence that guides me in nurturing young minds, exploring new horizons, and making a lasting impact.
Conversely, the soul of academia isn’t untouched by challenges. The pressure to succeed, the temptation of shortcuts, and the ever-expanding sea of information can obscure its brilliance. Yet, it’s during these moments that the essence of academia calls for a renewal of purpose. The strong stance in UTM’s philosophy “The divine law of Allah is the foundation of knowledge. In line with His Will, UTM strives with total commitment to attain excellence in science, technology and engineering for the well-being and prosperity of mankind” act as a reminder that each challenge is an opportunity to reaffirm the integrity of learning and to realign with the true essence of education. UTM’s philosophy resonates with my belief that education should empower individuals to be compassionate, well-rounded contributors to society.
UTM’s vision of becoming a ” premier university providing world-class education and research” mirrors my aspiration to broaden my perspective not just to strive to equip my students with not only subject-specific skills but also a mindset that transcends borders. UTM’s vision reinforces my commitment to nurturing adaptable individuals who can excel in an interconnected world. It’s where I’ve been encouraged to challenge norms, push boundaries, and dive into uncharted waters. This spirit of exploration led me to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, igniting creativity and leading to unexpected insights. In those moments, the soul of academia isn’t just a concept; it’s the fire that fuels discovery and nurtures the seeds of progress.
As I step closer to my academic goals, the soul of academia continues to echo in my thoughts, actions, and aspirations. It has cultivated in me a hunger for continuous learning, an eagerness to explore the unexplored, and an unwavering commitment to embracing the unknown. This eventually aligns with UTM’s mission to “develop holistic talents and prosper lives through knowledge and innovative technologies” which resonates deeply with my passion for education by becoming a gateway to knowledge with every discussion being an opportunity to challenge perceptions. The true soul of academia guided me to emphasize more on critical thinking and transform my thinking from passive acceptance to active engagement, allowing me to sift through the noise of information and grasp the kernels of truth hidden within. Indirectly, UTM’s mission aligns with my personal belief that education is a catalyst for personal growth and societal progress.
The soul of academia is not just an abstract concept; it’s a dynamic force that has etched itself onto my intellectual and personal landscape. As UTM member, it’s always embedded into my DNA, reshaping my own UTM DNA. It’s a living entity that encourages me to delve deeper, think critically, and make meaningful connections. This journey through academia’s soul is far from over; it’s a perpetual quest, an evolving narrative that intertwines with the greater story of human progress. The soul of academia resides within each of us who yearn to explore, learn, and leave an indelible mark on the canvas of knowledge.
“In the Name of God for Mankind”