RAR INSTITUTE STUDENT PROFILE AND ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT

Student Profile

• This personal reflection documents Azizur Rahman’s learning journey as an Associate Degree in Political Science student at the Rohingya Academic Research Institute (RAR Institute). Through his responses, he discusses the development of his political knowledge, academic confidence, communication abilities, and understanding of governance and international relations. He also reflects on the challenges of online learning, the guidance of his instructors, and the ways his studies are shaping his future ambitions. His experience illustrates how access to higher education can help students strengthen their analytical abilities and prepare to contribute constructively to their communities.

Questions and Answers

1. What is your full name, and how would you introduce yourself as a RAR Institute student?

My name is Azizur Rahman, and I am pursuing an Associate Degree in Political Science at RAR Institute. I am particularly interested in politics, governance, society, and international relations because these subjects help explain how institutions operate and how political decisions influence people’s lives. As a student, I aim to expand my knowledge, strengthen my critical-thinking abilities, and become more confident in communicating my ideas. I value the opportunity to continue my education through RAR Institute and see this academic journey as an important step towards my personal growth and future contribution to society.

2. What is your Student ID, and which programme are you currently studying?

My Student ID is RAR-AD-202626, and I am currently enrolled in the Associate Degree in Political Science at RAR Institute. The programme is helping me build a stronger foundation in political concepts, government institutions, public affairs, and international relations.

3. What was your educational background before joining RAR Institute?

Before joining RAR Institute, I completed Grade 12 at Parami High School during the 2025–2026 academic year. I also successfully completed 72 days of Community Health Worker (CHW) training at PROTTYASHI.These educational experiences encouraged me to continue developing my knowledge and skills. After completing Grade 12, I decided to pursue Political Science because I wanted to understand political and social issues more deeply and prepare for further academic and professional opportunities.

4. When did you join RAR Institute, and what motivated you to begin your studies?

I joined RAR Institute on 8 May 2026. My motivation came from my desire to continue higher education and gain a deeper understanding of politics, governance, and international affairs. I believe that education can help me develop a broader perspective, make better-informed judgments, and understand the challenges facing society. Joining RAR Institute has given me an opportunity to pursue these goals through structured academic study.

5. How would you describe your academic knowledge, confidence, and skills before joining RAR Institute?

Before joining RAR Institute, I had a basic understanding of social and political issues and was interested in learning more about them. However, my confidence in academic discussions and presenting my ideas was still developing. I wanted to become better at analysing information, communicating clearly, and expressing my opinions with appropriate reasoning. My studies at RAR Institute have provided opportunities to work on these areas and gradually strengthen my academic abilities.

6. What challenges did you encounter when you first began studying at RAR Institute?

One of my initial challenges was dealing with internet connectivity problems during online classes. I also needed time to become familiar with academic concepts, complete assignments effectively, and express my ideas clearly in discussions and presentations. Although these difficulties sometimes made learning challenging, I continued practising and participating in academic activities. Gradually, I became more comfortable with the learning process and developed greater confidence in handling my studies.

7. How has your academic confidence and classroom participation changed since joining RAR Institute?

Since joining RAR Institute, I have become more confident in asking questions, sharing opinions, and participating in online discussions. I am also increasingly comfortable presenting my ideas and explaining political concepts to others. Studying Political Science has encouraged me to examine issues from different perspectives rather than relying on a single viewpoint. This experience has strengthened my analytical thinking and helped me become a more active and engaged student.

8. What knowledge and skills have you gained from the Associate Degree in Political Science?

My academic development is centred on the Associate Degree in Political Science rather than the Diploma in Academic Research Studies. Through my Political Science studies, I have begun developing a stronger understanding of political institutions, governance, democracy, leadership, accountability, public policy, and international relations. These subjects are helping me understand how political systems function and how decisions made by governments and institutions can affect communities. I am also developing the ability to examine political questions more carefully and consider different interpretations of social and political events.

9. How has your programme strengthened your understanding of political concepts and academic analysis?

The programme has helped me approach political issues in a more structured and thoughtful way. Instead of looking at an issue from only one perspective, I am learning to consider its background, the institutions involved, the interests of different groups, and its possible effects on society. This approach is particularly useful when studying governance, political participation, public policy, and international relations. It encourages me to ask questions, consider evidence, and develop a more balanced understanding of complex issues.

10. How have your writing, critical-thinking, and analytical skills developed?

My studies have encouraged me to organise my thoughts more clearly and explain political ideas in a more logical manner. I am also learning to distinguish between personal opinions and arguments supported by reasonable explanations. Critical thinking has become an important part of my learning because political issues often involve different viewpoints and competing interests. I am working to strengthen my ability to compare perspectives, identify important questions, and communicate my conclusions more effectively.

11. How has your ability to understand and evaluate information about political and social issues improved?

Studying Political Science has encouraged me to look beyond the surface of political news and social discussions. I am learning to consider the context of an issue, the perspectives of the people involved, and the possible consequences of political decisions. I understand that responsible analysis requires careful consideration rather than accepting every claim without question. Developing this habit will help me become a more informed student and a more thoughtful participant in discussions about society and public affairs.

12. What have you learned through assignments, presentations, examinations, and classroom activities?

Assignments have encouraged me to organise information and explain what I have learned, while presentations have helped me practise speaking about political topics with greater confidence. Online classroom discussions have also given me opportunities to exchange ideas with classmates and consider perspectives that differ from my own. Examinations have encouraged me to review course materials and prepare systematically. Collectively, these activities have helped me understand the importance of regular study, active participation, and consistent effort in academic development.

13. What knowledge and understanding have you gained from the Associate Degree in Political Science?

The programme has introduced me to important political concepts, including the state, nation, sovereignty, government, governance, democracy, political institutions, political participation, leadership, accountability, public policy, and international relations. I have learned that these concepts are interconnected and help explain how political authority is organised, how decisions are made, and how institutions relate to society. I am also developing a greater appreciation for analysing political issues from multiple perspectives, which helps me build a more comprehensive understanding of the world around me.

14. How has studying Political Science changed your understanding of politics, society, governance, and international relations?

Studying Political Science has helped me recognise that politics is not limited to elections or political leaders. It also concerns how authority is exercised, how public decisions are made, how institutions function, and how those decisions affect people’s everyday lives. I now have a stronger interest in understanding the relationship between government and society, the importance of accountability, and the role of political institutions in public affairs. My studies have also encouraged me to examine international relations and current issues with greater curiosity and a more analytical mindset.

15. How have RAR Institute instructors and designated course instructors supported your academic development?

The instructors at RAR Institute have supported my learning by explaining political concepts, guiding classroom discussions, and helping students understand the subjects covered in the programme. Their teaching and feedback have encouraged me to participate more actively and improve the way I communicate my ideas. I am grateful to the instructors and academic mentors who dedicate their time and knowledge to students’ development. I also appreciate the academic leadership of Kaisayr Husein and the contributions of other instructors and scholars, including Dr. Mohammed Hashimru, whose commitment to academic learning helps create opportunities for students to develop their knowledge and abilities.

16. Which instructor, course, or academic experience has had the greatest positive impact on your development, and why?

My Instructor Kaisayr Husein has had a particularly positive influence on my academic development through his teaching of Course 1: State, Nation and Sovereignty. This course helped me understand the meaning of these fundamental Political Science concepts and examine the relationships among them. The lessons strengthened my understanding of how political communities are formed, how state authority operates, and why sovereignty matters in political affairs. His teaching encouraged me to think more carefully about political concepts and apply what I learned when considering wider political and social issues. I appreciate his guidance and dedication to helping students build a solid academic foundation in Political Science.

17. How have your communication, presentation, public-speaking, teamwork, and leadership skills improved?

Participating in online classes and presenting political topics have helped me become more comfortable expressing my ideas. I am gradually improving my ability to explain concepts, respond to questions, and communicate with classmates. Group activities have also taught me the value of cooperation, listening to different viewpoints, and sharing responsibilities. These experiences are helping me develop skills that can support future leadership and community engagement, including confidence, teamwork, communication, and responsible participation.

18. What major academic achievement or personal improvement have you experienced since joining RAR Institute?

One of my most important achievements has been beginning my Associate Degree in Political Science and making progress in my academic studies. I have developed a clearer understanding of concepts such as the state, nation, sovereignty, governance, and international relations. I am also proud of the progress I have made in participating in online classes, sharing my ideas, and communicating with my classmates. These improvements show me that learning is not only about acquiring subject knowledge; it is also about building confidence and developing the ability to engage with others constructively.

19. How has your education at RAR Institute influenced your future academic, career, and community goals?

My studies at RAR Institute have encouraged me to pursue further education and deepen my knowledge of Political Science. I hope to continue developing my understanding of governance, public affairs, international relations, and community development. In the future, I would like to pursue opportunities related to Political Science, governance, or community development, where I can apply what I have learned. I also hope to share knowledge with others and contribute to educational and social initiatives that benefit my community. For me, education is not only a personal achievement; it is also an opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills needed to support positive change.

20. Looking back on your journey at RAR Institute, how would you describe your overall academic, personal, and professional development?

My journey at RAR Institute has been a valuable period of learning and personal growth. Academically, I have strengthened my understanding of Political Science and become more interested in examining political and social issues. I have also improved my ability to think critically, participate in discussions, and communicate my ideas. Personally, I have become more confident and responsible in approaching my studies. The experience has encouraged me to remain open to new ideas, learn from others, and work consistently towards my goals. Looking ahead, I hope to build on this foundation through further education and practical experience. I believe that the knowledge and skills I am developing at RAR Institute will help me pursue future opportunities and contribute positively to my community.

Acknowledgment

I sincerely thank the Rohingya Academic Research Institute (RAR Institute) for providing me with the opportunity to pursue an Associate Degree in Political Science and continue my educational journey. I am especially grateful to Kaisayr Husein for his teaching, academic guidance, and commitment to supporting students’ development, particularly through the course State, Nation and Sovereignty. I also extend my appreciation to Dr. Mohammed Hashimru and the other instructors, professors, academic mentors, and contributing scholars who share their knowledge and encourage students to learn. Finally, I thank my classmates and everyone who has supported my educational progress. Their encouragement motivates me to continue learning, strengthen my understanding of Political Science, and work towards a future in which I can contribute meaningfully to my community.