Sabah Student Wins Gold in Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition
By Subaashinee Kupusamy,
10 OCTOBER: Elisha Carmen Erick, a student from Keningau Vocational College, has won the prestigious gold award in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024. Elisha, currently in her second year of studying construction technology, received the exciting news along with her achievement certificate via email on September 26.
In her essay titled “A Letter to the Prime Minister,” Elisha tackled the pressing issue of stateless children, which remains a significant problem in Sabah. She expressed deep concern over the challenges these children face, particularly their inability to access formal education. Elisha’s letter highlighted the impact this has on their future, limiting their chances of improving their lives and escaping the cycle of poverty.
College director Nordin Akup praised Elisha for her accomplishment and dedication to the cause. He noted that her passion for writing was evident not only in her award-winning essay but also in her earlier works, including an editorial published in an education magazine just a few months ago. He expressed hope that Elisha’s success would inspire other students to explore writing and journalism, helping them develop critical thinking and enhance their language skills.
Elisha was overjoyed by the recognition, as writing is a cherished outlet for her emotions and thoughts. Her essay’s powerful message and her ability to articulate such a sensitive issue have earned her this well-deserved honor on the international stage.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, organised by the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) in London, has been held annually since 1883, providing young writers from across the globe the opportunity to express their ideas on various global issues as stated in The Star.
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