The establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) was hailed as a significant step towards enhancing agricultural practices, improving yields, and ensuring national nutrition. There is potential that this initiative can financially uplift disadvantaged groups while aligning with the global ambition of achieving zero hunger as part of the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Chancellor of UNISSA said this in a titah at the 13th UNISSA Hafl Al-Takharruj (Convocation Ceremony) at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas yesterday.
The monarch also commended UNISSA for its achievement of being the sole local university listed in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking 2023.
The accolade underscores UNISSA’s commitment to the United Nations (UN) Agenda for SDGs and its adaptability to contemporary demands.
Furthermore, His Majesty linked poverty to food security, recognising the vital role of nutritious sustenance in physical and mental health. The monarch envisioned a healthy populace as a valuable workforce contributing to the nation’s progress.
UNISSA also plays a pivotal role in the collaborative effort to eradicate poverty within the nation. Through extensive research endeavours, the university has been identifying effective strategies to alleviate poverty, elevate living standards, and facilitate the transition of the affected population out of the shackles of poverty.
The monarch also underscored the importance of the SDGs as a global mandate that requires the commitment of every nation. His Majesty reiterated that the Sultanate is diligently working towards achieving these goals.
Of the 17 SDGs outlined by the UN, His Majesty drew attention to the paramount objective of eradicating poverty. The monarch highlighted the significant ramifications of poverty on various aspects of society including health, well-being, safety, and education. Although the extent of poverty in Brunei is not as severe as in other developing nations, His Majesty stressed the necessity to address and rectify this issue.
His Majesty drew on the principles of Islam to emphasise the communal responsibility for social development. Citing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), who emphasised on addressing social inequalities as integral to true faith, the monarch expressed confidence in UNISSA’s ability to tackle these pressing societal issues.
Addressing on the academic offerings, His Majesty acknowledged the uniqueness of the Dual Degree programme in Syariah and Law under the Faculty of Syariah and Law. This exclusive programme distinguishes UNISSA from other local higher education institutions and is viewed as a competitive edge.
In pursuit of greater impact and quality, His Majesty proposed the separation of the programme into two distinct faculties – one for Syariah and another for Law. This reorganisation aims to enhance efficiency, specialisation, and focus within each faculty, leading to more directed course modules.
His Majesty stressed that both faculties should strive to produce graduates of exceptional quality adhering to international standards. The Faculty of Law, in particular, was envisioned as a hub for comprehensive studies in both Syariah and Civil law, nurturing adept legal practitioners proficient in both domains. – Rokiah Mahmud
