SMARTER Brunei E.D.G.E Centre marked a significant milestone with the launch of Digital Education Initiative for Autistic Children at its premises in Kampong Mata-Mata on Tuesday.
The event was officiated by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Info-Communications Mohammad Nazri bin Mohammad Yusof as the guest-of-honour.
The initiative codenamed ‘Embrace Differences’ by Group NurRheiya under the Community Outreach Programme of the 31st Executive Development Programme for Senior Government Officers (EDPSGO) organised by the Civil Service Institute, underscores a strong commitment to foster inclusivity, innovation and sustainability in education for the autistic community in Brunei Darussalam.
The initiative introduces a tailored digital education platform specifically designed for autistic children, aimed at equipping them with tools to enhance their academic, social, and communication skills, while empowering parents and teachers to support their development.
The guest-of-honour in his speech commended the triple-helix collaboration between government, academia, and industry in creating innovative and sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of autistic children.
He emphasised the alignment of this initiative with the Digital Economy Masterplan 2025 that promotes inclusivity and fostering a Digital Society.
He also acknowledged the significant contributions of Group NurRheiya in planning and implementing this impactful initiative, and hopes to see the continuity of such meaningful projects in the future.
“Embrace Differences” brought together sponsors from diverse companies and industries, whose support was pivotal in realising the initiative.
There is also ongoing collaboration with various companies and educational institutions to support SMARTER Brunei in strengthening its infrastructure and driving innovation in digital education.
These partnerships will create sustainable opportunities, and position SMARTER Brunei as a recognised institution for specialised education in the future.
Designed to introduce technology as a purposeful tool within a balanced educational framework, “Embrace Differences” ensures digital tools complement, rather than replace, other developmental and interactive approaches fundamental to a child’s growth.
It is hoped that this initiative will inspire continued work and support in digital education efforts for the autistic community in sustaining its momentum to evolve and bring lasting change.
Vice President 1 and Chief Executive Officer, SMARTER Brunei E.D.G.E. Center Malai Sharifah Adila Surya binti Malai Haji Abdullah, expressed gratitude to Group NurRheiya, esteemed sponsors, and the community for their steadfast support. – Fadhil Yunus
