Twin Sprinters Graduate From Upm

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- After nine long years, twin sisters and national sprinters Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli and Zaidatul Husna Zulkifli received their scrolls at the second session of Universiti Putra Malaysia’s (UPM) 47th Convocation Ceremony today.

In a statement, UPM said the 30-year-old twins had to face multiple challenges to complete their studies, adding that they had to balance school and sports training to bring honour to the country.  

Zaidatul Husniah, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, said each semester, she must plan her activities to strike the right balance between her sports training and academic pursuits.

“I had to defer my studies for three years because I needed to train abroad in 2017, 2018 and 2020.  It was a challenge and sacrifice that had to be done,” she said in the statement.

Meanwhile, Zaidatul Husna, who received her bachelor of science degree in Human Resource Development, said time is the biggest challenge for athletes pursuing higher education.

According to her, student-athletes must manage their time, juggling between attending classes and training, and completing assignments on time.

“Alhamdulillah, finally, we have succeeded. It is the most meaningful gift that we could give to our parents as they are the backbone who provide unwavering support, tireless encouragement and motivation for us to continue.

“We can quit playing sports but not the pursuit of education and knowledge,” she added.

-- BERNAMA