From school dropout to responsible engineer, Budi’s life is best defined by the words “tough” and “determined”.

He started working part-time at 13 to supplement his family’s income. Juggling work and school proved too taxing for the teenager and he was expelled just before taking his N levels. Instead of giving in to despair, the determined lad enrolled for a two-year NTC course in electrical engineering at ITE.

He went on to further his qualifications in this area by taking another two-year course leading to the ITC. Throughout those four years, Budi had to sacrifice sleep to work as a full-time night shift technician. Still, his passion for learning remained strong.

While serving his National Service, he continued to study part-time.He did so well that he was offered a job as a technician even before he received his diploma. He is now pursuing a part-time degree course in electrical engineering.

Budi, who is working at Rolls Royce Marine, said: “When it comes to learning, I believe one has to keep on moving to get ahead.”