Job as a sailor gave school dropout a second chance to prove himself

Mixing with bad company led Bakhitiar to drop out of school at the age of 14. He did a couple of odd jobs before cruising the high seas at 22.It proved to be a turning point for him. He saw the career prospects in the maritime industry that are open to those with the right skills, even if they do not have a proper education like him. He was determined to upgrade himself and become a captain one day.

So at the age of 35, without any ‘O’ levels grounding in Mathematical or Physics, he took no pay leave to attend the third Officer Course at the Singapore Polytechnic. He had to keep up with classmates half his age. Tackling complex mathematical problems were worse than any sea storm he had ever encountered! There were also the bills to pay. His evenings and weekends were spent driving taxi to support his family of five. It was tough juggling that and schoolwork, but he successfully completed the course. He was promoted progressively to his current level as a Cargo Superintendent. He is now working hard to get his Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Marketing and Business.

At the workplace, he used the knowledge he has acquired to help his company achieve higher productivity. This was done by streamlining work processes, sourcing for cheaper supplies, and improving cargo operations.