Published by: UDZ International Institute (UDZII) Date: December 10, 2025
The transition from English language training to a full-degree program is one of the most excitingโand challengingโleaps an international student can make. It requires more than just good grades; it requires cultural awareness, technical smarts, and unshakeable confidence.
That is exactly why the UDZ International Institute (UDZII), in strategic collaboration with the Conseil des Guinรฉens de la Malaisie (CGM) and the Guinean Students Community at AIU, hosted the three-day workshop: “On the Way to Excellence โ Session 2.”
From December 5th to 7th, 2025, we brought together a vibrant group of students from Guinea, Nigeria, Uganda, Malawi, Comoros, and Liberia for a weekend of intensive growth.
Here is the recap of how we paved the way for the next generation of scholars at Albukhary International University.
Day 1: Mastering the Landscape (Virtual Kick-Off) ๐ฒ๐พ
The event launched on Friday night with over 60 participants logging in via Google Meet. The goal? To provide a “survival kit” for living in Malaysia.
After a powerful opening address by Mr. Souleymane Doumbouya (President of the Guinean Council in Malaysia) emphasizing discipline and unity, we dove into the essentials.
Sri Kugan Reegan, a law graduate, led a crucial session on Mastering the Laws and Culture. He didn’t just list rules; he guided students on their rights, responsibilities, and the cultural nuances that prevent common pitfalls. It was the perfect foundation for a safe and successful stay in Malaysia.
Day 2: The Tech Toolkit (Study Smarter, Not Harder) ๐ป
On Saturday, the energy shifted to in-person hands-on training at the AIU Language Center. We know that degree life is demanding, so we equipped our students with modern tools to handle the workload.
- Researching with AI: Ousman Ceesay demystified Artificial Intelligence. He taught students how to use AI ethically to structure assignments, improve research quality, and avoid plagiarism.
- Designing with Impact: Muntashir Mahmud Angel turned the room into a design studio. Using Canva, students learned to transform boring slides into professional, visual storiesโa skill that will make them stand out in every class presentation.
Day 3: Confidence & The “Why” ๐ค
We saved the most transformative session for last. Sunday was all about the mindset.
Muhammad Umar and Salmanu Abubakar Saidu took the stage to teach presentation mastery. They tackled the biggest fear many students have: stage fright. By the end of the session, students weren’t just learning how to speak; they were learning how to connect with an audience.
Program Supervisor Sow Mahmoud then shared his personal “Journey to Success.” His story was a raw and honest look at the hard work, faith, and smart decisions required to win in Malaysia, proving to the students that their goals are within reach.
Celebrating Our Stars ๐
No workshop is complete without recognizing excellence. During the closing ceremony, Mr. Mory Nabe (Vice-President, Guinean Community in Malaysia) presented awards to those who went above and beyond.
Huge congratulations to our top performers:
- ๐ฅ 1st Place: Ousman Z. Trawally (Liberia)
- ๐ฅ 2nd Place: Ahmed Mouctar Cherif (Guinea)
- ๐ฅ 3rd Place: Near Ahmed Steve (Malawi)
We also celebrated Mamadou Sidy Barry and Amara Kromah for their perfect punctuality and commitment.
Faces of the Future
The true measure of this workshop isn’t the certificates; it’s the change in the students.
“I can be a role model.” Suwaiba Yayaji Yusuf (Nigeria), an Early Childhood Education student, joined the workshop to find her footing. She left with clarity on Malaysian laws and new tech skills, stating she now feels equipped to not only succeed in her studies but to return home as a leader for other young women.
“Small islands, big dreams.” Abchirou El Hair Maoulida (Comoros), studying Social Development, shared that the workshop reminded him that students from smaller nations can lead big changes. He is now determined to use his improved communication skills to drive social projects in the future.
The Journey Has Just Begun
As the networking session wound down and students exchanged contacts with trainers and leaders, the atmosphere was one of pure gratitude and excitement.
They arrived as students finishing a language course. They left as scholars ready to tackle their degrees with courage, focus, and a support system behind them.
This is not the end. It is only the beginning of their journey to excellence.
