The “Give Me a Chance” Laptop Give-Away held by WFWP Malaysia at the Peace Embassy on 30 October 2021 saw refurbished laptops being given away to four underprivileged female students. In her opening speech, Datin Wellens Mimi Maria Farizan, Deputy President of WFWP Malaysia inspired the participants by sharing how she overcame the many challenges in pursuing a tertiary education over the years. The ceremony was witnessed by Mr Ding Eow Chai, Village Head of Kampung Baru Sungai Way who extended his sincere appreciation for the ongoing humanitarian work of WFWP.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, many families have suffered from pay cuts and job losses. The education system had been greatly affected. Many students faced difficulties staying connected to their teachers and were unable to keep up with their studies. The Laptop Give-Away Project makes a huge difference especially for those students who lacked a computer or who are sharing a device with siblings for their studies.
In an interview, Ashiny, 20, who was doing a part time job in a boutique while pursuing a diploma course, shared her struggles in coping with online classes without a laptop. “We were barely able to cope with our studies as my brothers and I took turns to attend online classes with one mobile phone. I had to go to my friend’s house so that I could borrow her laptop to complete my assignments.”
Syah, 18, was excited to be given a chance to pursue a tertiary education, “I’ve never dreamed of furthering my studies as I wasn’t confident and I didn’t want to burden my parents. I am keen to pursue a Diploma in Business. Thank you to WFWP for the encouragement and opportunity given.”
Born in a family where both parents are deaf, Chee, 20, is determined to study hard to complete her studies in Accounting. She hoped to get a stable job to support her family. “To be honest, there were so many times that I wanted to give up studying because it was just too hard for me. But I believe education will help me secure a better job. I really wanted to repay my parents by giving them a better life.”
“The laptop is really very timely as my course is beginning next week,” said an excited Xin, 18, who just took up a Diploma in Advertising at a local college. “I am very passionate in designing. I can’t wait to start learning new skills and knowledge with the laptop.”
The “Give Me a Chance” Education Empowerment Initiative provides financial assistance and used laptops to underprivileged female students who intend to pursue a tertiary education. We thank all donors and volunteers for contributing to the success of this programme.
