For Mohammad Nor S. Alisaid from Pikit, North Cotabato, education has been more than a path toward earning a degree. It has equipped him with knowledge, discipline, and a growing commitment to serve others.
Mohammad Nor graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminology while also pursuing studies in Qur'an memorization, Islamic education, Arabic, and English. His educational journey brought together academic learning and religious education, helping shape the values and sense of responsibility that guide him today.
Persevering Through Education
During his years as a student, Mohammad Nor faced financial challenges that sometimes made continuing his education difficult. Despite these circumstances, he remained determined to complete his studies and pursue his goals.
As a beneficiary of PHILCARE's Student Sponsorship Program, he received educational assistance that helped ease some of his school-related expenses and enabled him to continue his studies.
“The support was not only financial. It gave me encouragement, hope, and the opportunity to continue pursuing my education.”
A Journey of Learning
Mohammad Nor's educational journey extended beyond his university degree. He completed his Qur'an memorization, or Hifz, at Saksi Litahfizil Qur'an in June 2013 and later continued reviewing and strengthening his memorization at Ekrima bin Amr Institution in 2021.
In March 2020, he completed his English studies at Khadijah Mohammad Islamic Academy. He later completed Arabic studies at Jamiatu Janubil Filibbin, Ma'had Kuwait Al-Islami, in February 2022, alongside studies in Tarbiyah wa Dirasah al-Islamiyyah.
Together with his Criminology studies, these educational experiences helped shape the knowledge, values, and sense of responsibility that he now brings to his community.
From Learning to Service
For Mohammad Nor, graduation was not the end of the journey. After completing his studies, he continued serving his community through da'wah and Islamic education.
He participates in da'wah activities, delivers khutbahs at the mosque, teaches in the madrasa, and shares Islamic reminders during seminars and community gatherings. Through these activities, he is able to share the knowledge and values he gained throughout his years of education.
“I am grateful that I can use the knowledge and education I received to serve, teach, and help others in my community.”
His experience illustrates how educational support can extend beyond the individual student. As graduates apply their knowledge and skills in service to others, the benefits of education can reach the wider community.
Support That Helped Him Move Forward
Looking back, Mohammad Nor considers PHILCARE's sponsorship support an important part of his educational journey. The assistance helped him continue his studies, move closer to his dreams, and eventually use his education in serving his community.
He remains grateful to PHILCARE, the sponsors who made the program possible, his family, teachers, and everyone who supported him along the way.
“I hope that in the future, I can also help and inspire other students to continue their education and achieve their dreams, just as PHILCARE and our supporters helped me achieve mine.”
Continuing the Cycle of Impact
Today, Mohammad Nor's aspiration is not only to continue developing himself, but also to encourage and support others. His journey reflects a meaningful cycle of impact: an opportunity to learn, the determination to persevere, and a commitment to give back through service.
What began as educational support became an opportunity to pursue higher education, develop knowledge and skills, and ultimately serve others. Mohammad Nor's story is a reminder that supporting one student's education can create benefits that extend far beyond graduation.