Bursary money seems to improve the material life of poor students; but for me, it is more a spiritual support. There are a lot to worry in life, like living pressure, study pressure, family pressure, etc. These pressures on the one hand motivate our poor children to work hard in school; but on the other, they also make me feel uncomfortable in studying. This bursary money does not only lower my financial burden, allowing me to concentrate on my study, it further improves my life. Because of my family’s financial situation, being able to settling the tuition is already a great achievement, not to mention the living expenses needed. Even if my family had some extra money, it is not possible to fulfil the need of a student. This bursary helps to improve my life. It allows me to explore my interests. I love to paint since I was young. However, brushes are so expensive that I could not afford. Every year, they would buy me some tools and material for painting using the bursary money. I am therefore able to become who I am now.

This bursary provides us a platform. It of course offers me material enjoyment, but what counts more is the spiritual fulfilment - I can now concentrate on my study. It also teaches me to be grateful. Being grateful to what I have received, I therefore work even harder in school as this is the best thing I could offer them in return at the moment. A renowned scientist, Antonie, once said, ‘keeping a grateful heart is the first step to success’. Be grateful to your current circumstances, and respect and thank what the others have done for you. Thank you IRD, you have given me a bright future. I will keep my grateful heart to see the society and help the others.