2 December 2023
Amidst the triumphs of academic achievement at Perdana University’s Convocation 2023, a remarkable story of resilience and determination takes the spotlight. Fakhrul Ariffin Bakir, 41, a graduate with Retinitis Pigmentosa, who pursued a Degree Programme in Occupational Therapy, stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Employed as an Occupational Therapist at Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom, Kluang since 2015, Fakhrul faced unique challenges during his academic journey. He studied while he was working, where he enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy programme at the Perdana University School of Occupational Therapy in 2021.
His dedication to overcome these obstacles led him to discussions with the Dean, Professor Nathan Vytialingam, seeking a viable solution for examination accommodations. The examination unit of the university played a crucial role in supporting his needs.
Navigating through the complexities of the Covid-19 pandemic, Fakhrul encountered additional hurdles. Despite his computer having a screen reader for Moodle, it proved incompatible, leaving him unable to access essential resources.
Fakhrul went to Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Baru and Hospital Selayang to seek confirmation of his diagnosis as he started to lose his eyesight when he was 28. It was a surprise for him as he had good vision and was not wearing any spectacles. According to Fakhrul, his eyesight deteriorated rapidly within less than two months.
His academic aspirations were put on hold from 2012 to 2021 due to limited opportunities for visually-impaired individuals. Undeterred by the challenges, Fakhrul embarked on a journey to pursue his studies, facing the daunting task of learning everything from scratch after losing his sight.
In the face of adversity, Fakhrul seized an opportunity—recognizing the absence of a module for blind individuals in occupational therapy. His goal was to elevate this initiative to a Master’s or PhD thesis, contributing to the advancement of accessibility in the field.
This Convocation holds a poignant moment as Fakhrul, accompanied by his mother, Salbiah binti Patkor, 70, attended the convocation to receive his scroll. Their journey, fraught with challenges and sacrifices, embodies the spirit of perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge. Fakhrul’s story serves as an inspiration, shedding light on the extraordinary achievements that can emerge from resilience and determination.
As Fakhrul graduates, Perdana University celebrates not only his academic success but also his commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for others in the field of occupational therapy. This Convocation marks a profound moment, acknowledging the strength and resilience of a graduate who turned challenges into triumphs.
Fakhrul was a recipient of a Special Award: ‘Barrier Breaker’ Award at the convocation.
At the convocation, Perdana University also celebrated the success of Teoh Jun-Zhe, 24, who was a recipient of the Chancellor’s Award.
Teoh also received his Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy degree today and is looking forward to starting a new journey in his career as an Occupational Therapist at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.
Read more about our ‘Barrier Breaker’ award recipient, as featured in Astro Awani.
