Students should continue to gain knowledge and develop new skills to keep themselves relevant to industry needs, said Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Vice Chancellor Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle.
He said this at the presentation ceremony for the University Medal and Book Prize Awards yesterday to acknowledge UBD students for their hard work and dedication in their achievement of excellence. The event was held in conjunction with the recent 35th UBD’s Convocation Ceremony.
Dr Hazri said, “The medal and book prize presentation ceremony is an annual event related to the UBD convocation and regarded as the official recognition of achievements and academic excellence for graduates and students.”
He added, “The awards serve as a platform to instil the culture of excellence by setting high standards for academic achievements, leadership and community involvements. We hope that these achievements will be an inspiration to other students to try to realise their full potential.
“Today’s recipients have exhibited eagerness, diversity of talent and skills cultivated during their time at the university. The achievements covered academic excellence, research, community service, art and athletics, reflecting the comprehensive educational approach at UBD.
“In line with UBD’s motto ‘Ke Arah Kesempurnaan Insan’, the hard work, dedication, and high commitment shown by students for academics as well as self-development, is very important for the preparation of students to start a new journey after leaving the study environment,” he added.
Nur A’ishah binti Haji Khairul Amir Shahrin received the Vice-Chancellor’s Medal after recently graduating with a first class honours in Bachelor of Engineering in Energy Systems. The Vice-Chancellor’s Medal is awarded based on the recipient’s academic merits, significant contributions and achievements in extracurricular activities as well as for demonstrating exemplary leadership skills.
In an interview with the Bulletin, Nur A’ishah said, “Alhamdulillah, after all the hard work and efforts I put in the past four years, I am glad that UBD acknowledged my potential and achievements.”
On her success, she shared, “I have my own goals to achieve, like stepping out of the comfort zone and improving myself. My advice to the undergraduates is that perseverance is important when you go through hardship. Set your goals first, then you can work to achieve even higher results. Once you get there, it will be very fulfilling.
“I want to thank my parents and friends for their support. I also extend my gratitude to my lecturers who gave their insight and knowledge during my time here. Without them, I wouldn’t have made it.”
The University Silver medals were presented to the best final year Bachelor’s Degree students; Nur A’ishah, Sarah Mohamed Mohieldin Ahmed Abouelmaati, Koo Pey Ting, Areezna Arza binti Haji Abdullah and Syuni Syahindah binti Haji Mohd Taufik.
Meanwhile, the recipients of the University Book Prizes comprised 13 students from the Master’s Degree and 67 Bachelor’s Degree programmes for their outstanding achievements.
Bachelor of Business in Business Administration student Nurafifah Aqilah binti Hussin received the Book Prize for her outstanding achievement in Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB). Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd also presented the Excellence Awards to three recipients; Nur A’ishah, Awangku Mohammad Azamuddin bin Pengiran Mohd Hardy who achieved first class honours in Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical and Process Engineering) and Melanie Choo Hui San who also achieved first class honours in Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical and Process Engineering.
Four students received the Chinese Ambassador Award: Siti Nursarah binti Julhijjal, Su Jih Yang, Nur Adlin Hanisah binti Haji Mohd Noorasri and Melanie Choo Hui San, while Abdul Wafi bin Haji Ismail and Hani Nadirah binti Muhammad Daud received the award for Mandarin language.
Melanie Choo Hui San said, “I am excited and glad to receive the award because it’s the last time that I will be receiving them at UBD. My parents have been instrumental in my success. They have been very supportive and encouraged me when I faced difficulties.”
Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, who is also the chairperson of the UBD Council was the guest of honour at the ceremony held at the university’s Chancellor Hall.
Attorney General Dato Seri Paduka Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Di-Raja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa, Chinese Ambassador-designate to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo, principal officers, UBD staff, sponsors and family members were also present. – James Kon
