Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, emphasised the pivotal role of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) in ensuring that graduates possess relevant and up-to-date skills, which open up career opportunities both locally and internationally.
Speaking at the 32nd IBTE Convocation Ceremony on Tuesday at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas, the minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between industry players and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to align educational outcomes with market needs.
“This institution has built a strong network of cooperation with various industry sectors,” he said. “This not only increases the marketability of graduates but also ensures that the training provided is relevant to the actual needs of the industry. I believe this collaboration needs to be further strengthened to ensure our graduates continue to be globally competitive, especially in critical technical fields.”
The minister also acknowledged the essential role of teaching staff in sustaining TVET excellence, noting that Brunei requires educators who are not only technically skilled but also innovative and capable of keeping pace with rapid technological changes. “Educational institutions need to continue to invest in the professional development of teaching staff to ensure they remain relevant and competent in training future generations. I call for IBTE to continue to commit to continuous training for teaching staff to achieve this goal,” he said.
Touching on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the minister said that technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data Analytics require a shift in the way work is conducted. In this context, TVET graduates must be prepared to face new challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0. This, he added, involves mastering digital technologies, developing skills related to automation, and working with increasingly sophisticated systems.
The minister expressed confidence that IBTE has laid a solid foundation for graduates to become leaders in this era, where innovation and creativity are paramount.
He also noted that the global agenda, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), provides a roadmap toward balanced economic progress, environmental sustainability, and social well-being. TVET has a significant role in achieving these goals, especially by promoting access to quality education and productive employment. “I am confident that IBTE graduates are capable of becoming leaders in driving sustainable development through innovation in the sectors they engage in,” he said.
The graduates celebrated during the ceremony have completed a study programme that builds not only technical skills but also the competencies required by the industry. In a competitive world, the minister highlighted that “the marketability of graduates is an important measure of the effectiveness of the educational programs provided.” – LYNA MOHAMMAD
