STUDENT commitments can be overwhelming – subjects to master, assignments to complete, examinations to prepare for, not to mention extracurricular activities to participate in.
But for Muhammad Aufa Eizdihar Khairul Ariffin and Ejaz Roslan, two Form Five students at Kolej Yayasan Saad Melaka (KYSM), these demands did not deter them from going a step further in the face of necessary change.
Recognising that their boarding school gym was in need of a makeover, the duo galvanised their schoolmates to kickstart a project to renovate the facility.
The effort saw them involved in every stage, from conception to completion, including fundraising, negotiations, logistics management and legal documentation.
Recently opened for student use, the renovated facility, completed within two years from 2023 to this year at a cost of over RM200,000, now serves as a modern training space for the KYSM athletics, rugby and netball teams.
“When I saw my batchmates struggling to excel in sports, I thought to myself that there must be change. I felt that we, as students, must take the lead,” said Muhammad Aufa Eizdihar in a press release.
Armed with only a basic understanding of project operations and leadership, the duo began by consulting teachers and the school’s management before building a framework for what would later become the largest student-led project in the school’s history.
“The renovation included a complete redesign of the interior with new flooring, improved ventilation and training zones. We also brought in modern equipment such as squat racks, cable machines and functional training gear, transforming it into a professional-grade space for students to use for strength and conditioning,” Muhammad Aufa Eizdihar shared.
“The gym is more than just a building. It is proof that students can lead, organise, and bring meaningful change to their community if given the opportunity and autonomy to do so,” he added.
KYSM board of governors chairman Prof Dr Mohd Azizan Mohd Noor said both students demonstrated that meaningful change doesn’t have to wait until adulthood.
“It begins when young people take ownership, act with purpose and lead by example.
“This initiative represents the reform-driven leadership that we need to see more of in our youth,” he said.
Muhammad Aufa Eizdihar and Ejaz expressed hope that their story would empower and inspire others to challenge the status quo and take the initiative to work towards a better tomorrow.
According to the press release, the project has since earned praise from teachers and members of the school community as an example of hands-on learning and student empowerment.
“The initiative has also sparked discussions within KYSM about reforming student leadership structures to promote initiative, accountability and meaningful impact,” it added.
