AS a student, Ganeshwaran Kana (pic) had a habit of reading The Star.
It was through this daily routine that he discovered the Star Education Fund (SEF), an opportunity that would shape his future in unexpected ways.
After completing his secondary education at a Mara Junior Science College, he progressed through the government-funded matriculation programme and secured a place at Universiti Malaya (UM).
However, financing his tertiary education was another challenge altogether.
Ganeshwaran’s family was unable to afford the cost of his studies. It was a scholarship from the SEF that enabled him to pursue a Bachelor of Economics at UM.
Beyond covering tuition fees and living expenses, the scholarship instilled in Ganeshwaran a sense of responsibility.
As a recipient backed by a leading media organisation, he said he felt motivated to make the most of his university experience, not just academically but also through activities that sharpened his thinking and broadened his perspective.
Upon graduation, he joined Star Media Group (SMG) as a cadet journalist on the business desk, fulfilling the terms of a four-year bond attached to the scholarship.
He conceded that his ambitions had originally leant more towards academia or a role in a think tank, and that he had approached journalism with a sense of duty rather than passion.
However, as he immersed himself in the fast-paced rhythm of business reporting, Ganeshwaran found himself increasingly drawn to the craft – from covering markets and analysing policies to unpacking complex economic developments.
Gradually, what began as an obligation evolved into genuine interest.
By the time his four-year bond came to an end, Ganeshwaran chose to stay in journalism, which has grown from a temporary commitment into a meaningful career for him.
Over the years, he has deepened his expertise in business journalism, taking on greater responsibilities and rising through the ranks.
Today, as deputy news editor of StarBiz, he marks his 10th year with SMG – a milestone that coincides with the organisation’s 55th anniversary.
Looking back, the 33-year-old said the SEF scholarship set off a chain of events that led him to discover a career he had not envisioned but has since found engaging and meaningful.
The experience also shaped his outlook, he added.
“Being a scholar is not solely about academic achievement, but also about engaging with the world beyond the classroom,” he said, noting that the networks he built and the exposure he gained during his university years continue to inform his work today.
For students aspiring to secure scholarships, he offered this advice: “Be authentic, be prepared and learn to communicate your strengths clearly.”
This feature is part of a series highlighting beneficiaries of the Star Education Fund (SEF), in celebration of Star Media Group’s 55th anniversary. Since its inception in 1994, the SEF has benefited 4,601 scholarship recipients, with a total value of RM176mil. Applications for the 2026 edition are now open at https://www.thestar.com.my/edufund. For enquiries, email edufund@thestar.com.my or call 03‑7967 1388 ext 1466.
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1. In groups of four, retell Ganeshwaran’s journey in about 60 seconds. Each student takes turns adding one sentence to form a coherent story.
2. In pairs, share one obligation in your life and how you might turn it into something you enjoy. Include at least one example from your daily routine.
The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
