5 days ago
Support from colleagues, students helps disabled teacher inspire
KUALA KRAI: Spirit and dedication has helped an inspiring teacher born with disabilities overcome his limitations.
SMK Mengkebang teacher Hashim Mohamad, 36, was born with underdeveloped legs and left arm. He uses his right arm to move around.
He carries out his duties as an educator with full commitment, becoming an inspiration for his colleagues and students.
"I'm not like other people. But I believe I am just as capable as any other teacher. I want to be living proof that limitations are not an excuse to fail."
Hashim began his journey as an educator in July 2014 and currently teaches Bahasa Melayu at SMK Mengkebang.
Since the beginning of his career, he has given his best to his students to help them succeed.
"Due to my movement limitations, the school has provided me a classroom on the ground floor to ease the teaching and learning process.
"It has been really helpful as I no longer need to climb stairs to reach upper-floor classrooms.
"The school also provided short tables to help me communicate with students more easily.
"I make full use of technology, such as a laptop and a projector, so I don't face issues delivering my lessons to students.
"I can walk and climb stairs, but I am slower than others. Having a classroom on the ground floor has been very helpful.
"Alhamdulillah, all the teachers and students have been incredibly supportive. They often help me with my movement and everyday tasks."
Hashim is the fifth of eight siblings and holds a Bachelor in Malaysian Studies with Education from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris Perak.
He said teaching with a disability was not an easy task.
"Every job has its challenges. As an educator who is disabled, my role is to teach despite my limitations.
"Every day, I drive to school with a car modified for disabled people.
"I have never seen my disability as a barrier. I use it as motivation to inspire my students and society.
"I wanted to be a lawyer, but Allah SWT led me to education. I'm grateful that I can educate the next generation."
Hashim's dedication has won him recognition.
He received the OKU Teacher Icon Award from the Kelantan Education Department in 2019, the Excellent OKU Teacher Award from the same department in 2018, the Active Young Teacher Award from the Kuala Krai District Education Office in 2017 and the Successful OKU Award from the Social Welfare Department in 2015.
