IT was a dream long in the making and now a dream come true for Gowri Mogan Kumarappa, who has officially graduated as a medical doctor, marking a powerful milestone not only for herself but also for the scholarship programme that supported her.
Coming from a humble background, Gowri’s journey was filled with challenges. Yet, her determination never wavered.
In June this month, she graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from AIMST University in Sungai Petani, achieving a life goal she had set her sights on since she was just four years old.
Born and raised in Penang, Gowri is also the first successful graduate of the Persatuan Kebajikan 88 Kapten Pulau Pinang (88 Captains) scholarship programme, an initiative dedicated to nurturing academically talented students from underprivileged backgrounds in Penang and the northern region.
Founded as a charitable non-governmental organisation (NGO), 88 Captains provides financial support and mentorship to deserving students.
In 2023, during her third year of studies, Gowri faced urgent financial difficulties and was referred to the 88 Captains by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Following a rigorous selection process, she was awarded a RM20,000 scholarship, a lifeline that enabled her to complete her studies.
Despite financial constraints, Gowri persevered. She juggled her academic commitments while working multiple part-time jobs, running small businesses, and even driving for e-hailing services to make ends meet.
She officially graduated on June 21 this year, a date that now stands as a defining moment not only for her but also for the 88 Captains’ mission of talent empowerment.
In a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at Komtar today, Gowri expressed her deepest gratitude to both 88 Captains and the CMO for believing in her when others didn’t.
“I reached out to many parties for help, but received no response. Then came the CMO’s reply, which gave me hope.
“Soon after, I was introduced to 88 Captains, and the rest is history.
“My dream of becoming a doctor began when I was just four. Thanks to 88 Captains and CMO, that dream is now a reality. I was speechless when all my tears turned into joy.
“This achievement is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who stood by me. My parents and I are forever grateful,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Now aged 31, Gowri is awaiting her housemanship placement from the Ministry of Health, with Penang General Hospital expected to be her first posting.
Importantly, Gowri emphasised that her ambition is not about personal gain. “I don’t just want to be a doctor. I want to serve, inspire, lead, and give back to the community that supported me. I promise not to let anyone down,” she said.
Chow commended Gowri for her resilience and dedication.
“Despite all odds, she stayed strong and made her dream come true. Her story is an inspiration to many. I also wish to thank 88 Captains for their tireless commitment to nurturing Penang’s young talents.
“I encourage more private sector players to join 88 Captains in their mission to develop and retain quality human capital in the state,” said Chow.
88 Captains chairman Datuk Seri Ooi Eng Hock, who also attended the courtesy visit, congratulated Gowri and shared his hopes for her future.
“We’re incredibly proud of you, Gowri. This is just the beginning. Keep doing good, and good things will come your way,” he said.
Ooi also reiterated the association’s commitment to its cause.
“To date, we have granted more than RM1 million of scholarships to 27 students from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College, AIMST University and INTI International College,” said Ooi.
Also present during the courtesy visit were 88 Captains secretary Datuk Jimmy Ong Chin Keng, 88 Captains legal advisor Prof Patricia Chung Wei Leng and Penang Care chairman and 88 Captains member Dr Ngoo Seong Boon.
News Link: https://www.buletinmutiara.com/penangs-gowri-mogan…/
