Collaboration & Excellence : Global Insights Essay Contest 2023 Unites UiTM and UFE

ARAU, 12th June 2023 – The Second Global Insights Essay Contest (GIEC) 2023 was organized with the goal of strengthening collaboration and cooperation between Universiti Teknologi MARA Perlis Branch, Malaysia (UiTM), and the University of Finance and Economics (UFE), Mongolia. The contest aimed to promote academic excellence, foster inclusiveness, address issues of racism, and raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). This report provides an overview of the event, highlighting its activities, guidelines, participants, judging process, and the winners.

The contest spanned several weeks and involved a series of activities. It commenced with a Call for Participation, announced on April 7, 2023, inviting students from UiTM and UFE to take part. Participants were then required to submit their essays by May 8, 2023. Additionally, a workshop focused on writing convincing essays was conducted on May 2, 2023, offering valuable guidance to the participants. On May 12, 2023, a panel of jurors carefully evaluated the submitted essays. Finally, the contest results were announced on May 15, 2023, and the winners were honored in a joint online award ceremony held on May 26, 2023.

The success of The Second GIEC 2023 can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of the committee members, including the patrons, Prof Ts Dr Mohd Azlan Mohd Ishak, Dr. Ahmad Nizan Mohd Noor, and directors PM Dr Latisha Asmaak Shafie, Puan Fazmawati Zakaria, Mr. Timothy, and the Academy of Language Studies AJKs. Their commitment and tireless work ensured the smooth execution of the event.

Lecturers from both UiTM and UFE evaluated the essays, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment. A moderation session was conducted on May 18, 2023, to ensure consistency in the evaluation process.

The virtual closing ceremony and announcement of winners took place on May 26, 2023 followed by price giving ceremony on 12th June 2023. The ceremony featured various segments, including registration, recitation, speeches by key personnel from UiTM, UFE, and esteemed guests. Distinguished individuals such as Prof Ts Dr Mohd Azlan Mohd Ishak, Dr. Ahmad Nizan Mohd Noor, PM Dr Latisha Asmaak Shafie, Puan Fazmawati Zakaria, Mr. Timothy, Ms. Khosbayar Sukhbaatar, and Dr. Enkhbold Jigjidsuren delivered speeches, emphasizing the importance of the contest and its impact on the academic community. The ceremony also included the presentation of the contest montage and corporate videos, the announcement of winners, and a photo session.

A total of 123 students from various faculties represented UiTM, while UFE had eight participants in the contest. Each participating student received a Certificate of Participation from both universities. The top 10 winners were awarded Certificates of Special Recognition, with rankings ranging from 1st to 3rd place, along with consolation prizes. The contest recognized and awarded winners from both UiTM and UFE. The winners of The Second GIEC 2023 from Universiti Teknologi MARA Perlis Branch, Malaysia (UiTM) and the University of Finance and Economics (UFE) are as follows: UiTM – 1st Place: Alia Ellisya binti Hamidon (Business and Management), 2nd Place: Muhammad Nur Hafeez bin Samsul (Business and Management), 3rd Place: Ahmad Ahza bin Mohamad Nasir (Computer Science), and Consolation: Muhammad Nurhilman Mohd Rozalee (Computer Science), Noor Fazana Humaira binti Mohd Zahid (Business and Management), Muhammad Arash bin Rustam Affandi (Computer Science), Aisya Maisara binti Madrosham (Applied Sciences), Muhamad Firdaus bin Zulkifli (Plantation and Agrotechnology), Muhammad Bishrun Wafi bin Zulkifli (Applied Sciences), and Muhammad Juffri bin Johari (Business and Management). UFE – 1st Place: Purevjav Lkhavagsuren, 2nd Place: Namuun Narangerel, 3rd Place: Enkhzul Bayarmagnai, and Consolation: Bayarmaa Munkhbayar. These winners demonstrated remarkable achievements in their respective fields of study, showcasing their academic excellence and commitment to The Second Global Insights Essay Contest 2023. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performance and contributions!

In conclusion, The Second GIEC 2023 served as a successful platform for students from Universiti Teknologi MARA Perlis Branch, Malaysia (UiTM) and the University of Finance and Economics (UFE) to showcase their academic prowess, foster collaboration, and address important issues of inclusiveness and ending racism. The event not only promoted academic excellence but also raised awareness about the SDG. Through their essays, participants expressed their perspectives and inspired positive change. The contest’s success can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee and the participation of students from both universities. Overall, the event left a lasting impact on the participants, institutions, and the broader academic community, highlighting the power of education and collaboration in shaping a better future.