The information and communication technology (ICT) industry in Brunei is dynamic and ever-evolving, and to thrive in this environment, professionals must embrace a mindset of constant upskilling and reskilling. This is a national imperative and a global necessity to ensure that our workforce remains agile and adept in navigating the complexities of the digital age. Lifelong learning, therefore, emerges as a crucial cornerstone in the foundation of a vibrant and competitive ICT ecosystem.
This was said by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Chin Wei Keh, as deputy chair of the Manpower Industry Steering Committee (MISC), at the closing ceremony of Coding.bn Cohort 2 at Aman Hills Hotel yesterday.
He acknowledged the foresight and dedication of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) in addressing the challenges of the digital era.
AITI has played a pivotal role in equipping our nation with the essential digital skills needed to propel us into the future. The focus on empowering the youth, exemplified by initiatives like Coding.bn, is a testament to AITI’s commitment to fostering a digitally literate and capable workforce.
“Coding.bn, one of the many initiatives under the MISC Working Group for the ICT Sector (MISC-WG ICT), has proven to be a beacon of success. By collaborating with industry players, the programme ensures that the training provided aligns seamlessly with the demands of the local ICT industry.
“I was also made to understand that the curriculum’s design, centred on industry-standard programming languages, reflects a forward-thinking approach that prepares participants not just for today but for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” said the deputy permanent secretary.
Meanwhile, AITI Chief Executive Ir Haji Jailani bin Haji Buntar, as the co-lead of the MISC-WG ICT, said, “The projects aligned with AITI’s strategic pillar to empower businesses and society with digital capabilities, by ensuring the development and enablement of continuous learning and updating skills and knowledge to stay competitive in the digital economy.
“It has served as a platform for knowledge, growth and transformation for Cohort 2 participants. We have witnessed firsthand the dedication, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence that our participants have exhibited. This cohort follows the success of Coding.bn Cohort 1 where 75 per cent of the participants have secured full-time employment within one year of the programme.
“I believe the programme has helped the participants advance their coding skills and gain invaluable insights from their mentors and trainers as they enter the digital workforce with enhanced capabilities.” – Azlan Othman
