JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 9 – In an era where postgraduate students face mounting pressure to complete their research on time and meet high academic standards, the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), delivered a timely and transformative intervention. The webinar, titled “Mastering the Defense: Winning Strategies for Proposal and Viva Success”, was presented by Dr. AbdulMumini Inda, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Studies and Behavioural Sciences, and attracted wide participation from across the faculty’s postgraduate community.
A Timely Support for Postgraduates
The current postgraduate landscape is increasingly competitive, with students expected to demonstrate not only research excellence but also exceptional communication skills during proposal and viva defenses. Many candidates struggle with anxiety, uncertainty, and lack of exposure to best practices before facing examiners. Recognising this gap, FEST organised the webinar at a critical point in the academic calendar, equipping students with the mindset and practical tools to excel.
A Unique Metaphor that Reshaped Perspectives
Dr. Inda captivated the audience with a powerful metaphor likening the Viva Voce to childbirth , reframing the process from being a “trial” to a moment of “delivery.” Students were encouraged to see their thesis as a “child of knowledge” nurtured over months or years of research, now ready to be introduced to the scholarly world.
In this analogy, the supervisor was cast as the obstetrician, the co-supervisor as the midwife, internal examiners as pediatricians, and the external examiner as a consultant ensuring readiness for the academic world. This vivid framing helped reduce fear and replace it with pride and purpose, giving students a new lens through which to view their defenses.
“I used to think of the viva as a stressful hurdle,” said Ayuni, a Master’s candidate. “But Dr. Inda’s metaphor really changed how I see it , it’s no longer something to fear, but something to celebrate.”
Another participant, Lydia, pursuing his PhD in Management and Administration, added: “The strategies and mindset shared today will help me not just in my defense, but in how I carry myself as a scholar. It was empowering.”
About the Speaker
Dr. AbdulMumini Inda is a seasoned academic with years of teaching, supervision, and research experience in the fields of education, behavioral sciences, and academic development. Known for his engaging teaching style, he has guided numerous postgraduate students through the challenges of academic writing and research defense. His use of creative metaphors and practical strategies has made him a sought-after mentor and trainer within the faculty.
Aligning with UTM’s Vision
The initiative also reflects UTM’s broader mission of fostering academic excellence and producing graduates who are confident, innovative, and globally competitive. By empowering postgraduate students with the necessary skills and mindset, FEST is actively contributing to the university’s goal of nurturing impactful scholars who can thrive in both local and international academic landscapes.
Looking Ahead
Encouraged by the positive reception, FEST PG Committee announced plans for a series of follow-up webinar and coaching clinics tailored to postgraduate students at different stages of their research journey. These will focus on areas such as academic writing, research dissemination, and building confidence for international conference presentations.
In conclusion, FEST’s “Mastering the Defense” webinar proved to be more than just a skills-building session , it was a mindset-shifting experience. By blending practical strategies with an inspiring metaphor, Dr. AbdulMumini Inda not only demystified the proposal and viva process but also transformed it into a moment of celebration rather than apprehension. Participants left with renewed confidence, clearer strategies, and a deeper sense of ownership over their research journey.
As the academic calendar advances, this timely intervention is set to leave a lasting impact, empowering UTM postgraduates to face their defenses not with fear, but with the pride of presenting their “child of knowledge” to the scholarly world.
Written by: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jamilah Ahmad & Dr. AbdulMumini Inda