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Kota Kinabalu: Kian Kok Middle School held its annual Education Fair on Thursday, with more than 60 local and foreign universities and colleges taking part to help students chart their academic and career paths.

Organised by the school’s Guidance and Counselling Department, this year’s fair featured a wide range of institutions including prominent Malaysian universities, vocational and technical training centres, and colleges offering international programmes.

Each provided students with valuable information and guidance on further education opportunities.

In addition to Kian Kok’s junior and senior students, the fair also saw enthusiastic attendance from students of several national secondary schools here.

Accompanied by their teachers, hundreds of these students took part in the event, fostering a positive atmosphere of inter-school collaboration. 

Many parents were also present, eager to explore education pathways and scholarship options for their children.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Tan Peng Guan, Honorary Advisor to the Kian Kok Middle School Board of Governors. 

“It is truly heartening to see everyone here today, genuinely committed to shaping their educational journeys. I hold deep respect for the tireless efforts of our local education community,” he said.

Tan said education is not only the foundation of individual growth but also a driving force behind national progress. Quoting Ministry of Education statistics, he said 8,076 students were absent from the 2024 SPM examinations.

“This number is alarming. It represents not just a setback for the students themselves, but a loss to the nation’s future talent pool,” he said, urging students to value their learning opportunities and pursue their dreams with courage and resilience.

He added that higher education is more than just obtaining a certificate, it is a transformative journey that helps young people discover their passions, broaden their perspectives, and build meaningful networks.

“As long as you are determined and work hard, you will find your place in the world,” he assured.

The fair was vibrant and well-received. Participating institutions set up booths offering detailed course information, application advice, and financial aid options. 

Students actively engaged with representatives, asking questions and listening attentively demonstrating their eagerness and hope for the future.

Wong Liong Kiong, Head of the Guidance and Counselling Department, noted that this year’s event surpassed previous editions in both scale and participation.

She extended her gratitude to the national schools that joined the fair and to all participating institutions for their strong support in creating a wider platform for student development.

According to the school, the core aim of the fair is to broaden students’ horizons and deepen their understanding of the wide variety of education pathways available to them. 

Whether interested in local universities, overseas institutions, or vocational and technical training, students had the opportunity to gain firsthand insight at the event.