For many, the journey into aquatic science begins with an intrinsic love for nature and an eagerness to unravel the mysteries of water ecosystems.
Rabi’atul Adhwiyah binti Abdullah Hadini, a recent graduate of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), is no exception.
Last month, she stood among the hundreds of peers celebrated at the convocation ceremony on October 29 at the International Convention Centre, Berakas, marking a proud moment of academic achievement.
Reflecting on her studies, Rabi’atul shared with the Bulletin that the programme opened doors to explore the intricacies of water quality, marine biology, and conservation. It delved into pressing global challenges such as climate change and pollution, blending theoretical insight with hands-on research to forge meaningful solutions for preserving aquatic resources and biodiversity.
At 25, she spoke passionately about how these experiences fuelled her ambitions.
“With the education I’ve gained, I hope to venture into the aquatics industry. This programme also taught us entrepreneurship, which sparked my strong interest in starting my own business.
“My favourite subject was Aquatic Animal Biology, where we learned dissection techniques on fish and crustaceans to assess if their organs were affected by bacteria.”
Meanwhile, fellow graduate Muhd Aimi Naqiuddin bin Mohd Noraizan is no stranger to pushing boundaries and embracing new challenges.
This adventurous spirit led him to enrol in the NTec in Assistant Nurse (General Nursing) programme, where he discovered a passion not just for the medical field but for the sense of purpose that comes with it.
“I knew it would be difficult, but nursing is a noble profession,” Muhd Aimi reflected. The rigorous training taught him to navigate the multifaceted responsibilities of a nurse, mastering each procedure and duty with care and precision.
The most testing part, he admitted, was the transition from learning in classrooms to practising those lessons during his internship. Yet, armed with determination and a clear goal of joining the healthcare sector, he embraced each moment as a step towards honing his skills.
Muhd Aimi’s sights are set beyond the present; he plans to build on his foundational knowledge, advancing from basic techniques to more sophisticated practices through further studies.
At 33, he envisions himself as an experienced nurse, contributing to patient care with confidence and empathy.
Muhd Aimi hopes to guide others in maintaining healthier lifestyles, sharing insights gained from group discussions and seminars that he pledges to continue attending. His aspiration to become a professional nurse is not just a personal goal but a promise of service – to support his community and family with knowledge and care.
Another graduate during the convocation ceremony was Lcpl Nur Farhana Hamizah binti Md Shamrmidin Hamizan who embodies dedication as both a military dental surgery assistant at Berakas Camp and an in-service student enrolled in the NTec in Assistant Nurse (Dental) programme.
When the opportunity to study under the LDP scheme presented itself, the 29-year-old seized it without hesitation, viewing it as an invaluable step towards career progression and personal growth.
Balancing work and studies, Nur Farhana Hamizah found that being an in-service student enriched her professional and personal development.
“There was no distinction between me and other students; we shared the same classroom, the same assignments, and learned side by side,” she shared.
The experience sharpened her job-related expertise, enhanced her critical thinking, and fostered her social skills. Applying her new knowledge in her day-to-day duties brought a deeper sense of purpose to her work.
“The programme offered more than I expected – I was constantly uncovering new information from my notes and striving to understand it better,” she added.
Nur Farhana Hamizah recommends the programme to anyone intrigued by dentistry, a field she describes as both fulfilling and essential.
“Dentistry is not just about check-ups and fillings; it’s about preventing disease and promoting oral health,” she explained.
She believes that the best dentists are those who find joy in their work, are captivated by the intricate links between oral health and overall well-being, and possess a deep-seated passion for helping others.
“That’s how I see myself too,” she concluded, reflecting the dedication and enthusiasm she brings to both her studies and her role in the military.
The final graduate the Bulletin spoke to was Awangku Yusof bin Pengiran Ali who talked about his journey into agriculture, which began unexpectedly during the global pandemic that swept through Brunei.
With time on his hands, he became intrigued by hydroponics, sparking a newfound passion for agriculture. Encouraged by a friend, he enrolled in the HNTec in Agro-Technology programme, specialising in Crop Technology. Now, at 26, he reflects on how that decision reshaped his path.
“The skills I gained are incredibly versatile,” he shared. Beyond just cultivating crops, the course provided insights into product development, marketing, and sales – key elements that bridge agriculture and business.
Such training equips graduates not only for roles in agriculture but also for entrepreneurial ventures and broader business opportunities.
“You can start your own business or take your skills into different industries and still have the means to pursue side projects,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Awangku Yusof plans to either continue his studies or seek work in his chosen field. For now, he’s taking a gap year and working outside the sector but remains intent on pursuing his passion.
To those considering the programme, he offered candid advice.
“Don’t let anyone discourage you and stay open-minded about different industries. It can be intimidating to take a new path, but it’s worth it. Many think it’s just farming, but it’s much more.”
He recalled the surprise of learning about business strategies, lab techniques, and research modules, emphasising that Agro-Technology encompasses various specialisations, each with its own value.
“Keep an open mind,” he urged. “Don’t limit yourself to one path. This field offers opportunities in many areas.”
The stories of these graduates highlight resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of education. Their journeys show that with determination and an open mind, education fosters personal growth and community impact. – Lyna Mohammad
