ITE Student Is 1 Of 3 Keppel Care Foundation Scholars
Can you ever imagine giving up school and taking up odd jobs in order to raise a family?
For most of us, it’s a hard thought to consider, but for 22-year-old ITE student Norhidayah Norisham, it was her reality.
Despite her difficult circumstances, Ms Norhidayah scored a perfect 4.0 grade point average and emerged as a recipient of the $9,600 Keppel Care Foundation (KCF) scholarship.
Single-handedly supported 6 siblings
Ms Norhidayah had just completed her ‘N’ levels examinations in 2013 and was looking to further her studies. However, unfavourable circumstances at home forced her to quit school for three years.
Norhidayah assumed the responsibility of caring for her six siblings, but didn’t reveal why she had to do so.
Whether it was going door-to-door to distribute flyers or being a crowd marshal at events, Norhidayah did everything in her capacity to improve her family’s situation.
In an interview with The Straits Times, Norhidayah expressed how “It was tiring to rush from my morning job in Jurong to wherever my next job was.”
Her hectic schedule left her with little to no time at all to study.
Worked hard to defy all odds
Determined to succeed, Norhidayah would always ask questions and pay attention in class.
And her efforts most certainly weren’t in vain.
On Tues (14 May), the first year mechatronics student received the KCF scholarship at the annual ITE Student Achiever’s Awards at ITE College Central.
Norhidayah was one of only three students to receive the $9,600 scholarship for perseverance and academic excellence.
An inspiration to youths
Norhidayah’s fortitude makes her no less than a wonder woman.
She has set a fine example for many youths, proving that anyone is capable of anything, as long as they put their mind to it.
We at MS News congratulate Norhidayah and wish her the best in her future endeavours.
Featured image from The Straits Times.
