Education is a key path for underprivileged families to escape poverty as it opens doors to better job opportunities, higher earnings and personal growth, while also equipping individuals with skills and knowledge to improve their lives and break the cycle of poverty, said Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (BIBD ALAF) Programme recipient Saiful Azmi bin Saradin.
He said this during the BIBD ALAF Welcoming Ceremony for new students on Tuesday.
Saiful Azmi recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Syariah Islamiah from Al-Azhar University in Cairo and received his graduation certificate at the ceremony.
In an interview, Saiful Azmi shared that he was selected for the BIBD ALAF scholarship because of his academic potential, dedication to learning and desire to make a positive impact in society.
“The BIBD ALAF Programme provided crucial financial support, allowing me to focus fully on my studies in Cairo without worrying about financial burdens. It also gave me access to valuable resources and mentorship, helping me stay motivated and achieve my academic goals.”
Saiful Azmi hopes to gain practical experience in his field by entering the workforce, while keeping the option of further studies open for the future. However, he wants to apply what he had learned and continue growing professionally before considering advanced studies.
Touching on the initiative by BIBD, he said it is a remarkable programme that empowers students from underprivileged backgrounds, offering the opportunity to pursue higher education and unlock their full potential, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society.
He also expressed that education plays an important role by forming highly skilled, knowledgeable and competitive individuals.
“By providing quality education, we can produce an innovative, productive and a supportive workforce, and support the development of the country in economics, technology and social areas. Education also strengthens the people to actively contribute to the country’s progress, thus achieving Brunei’s vision as a high-income and quality developed nation.”
The ceremony also saw the launch of BIBD’s new initiative, the BIBD ALAF Bursary, a significant expansion of BIBD’s efforts to ensure inclusivity and opportunities for all.
Eleven-year-old Muhammad Nur Ihsan bin Abdullah of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School was selected as one of the recipients in the pilot project.
His mother Norasyikin Rianazura binti Haji Samat said her son was nominated by the Student Affairs teachers at his school, and expressed her gratitude to Allah the Almighty for the acceptance of her son into the scheme. She highlighted the programme’s significance, particularly for the underprivileged, as it provides them with opportunities to excel in their studies and stay motivated.
She expressed hope that the initiative would transform their lives, enabling them to achieve financial stability. Norasyikin also extended her appreciation to BIBD for the opportunity, noting that it has eased her family’s financial burden, especially as she is a full-time housewife while her husband is self-employed. – Lyna Mohamad
