Lifelong learning key to health field careers

1280

The journey to becoming a healthcare professional is one of lifelong learning, resilience and unwavering dedication, said Brunei Medical Students’ Association (BMSA) President Awangku Md Nukman Syawqi bin Pengiran Md Salimin.

“You are not alone on this journey – there is a community of peers, mentors, and professionals ready to support you along the way,” he said at a symposium organised by the association at Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences building on Sunday.

The event themed ‘From Aspiration to Action: A Symposium for Future Healthcare Leaders’ drew sixth form students eager to explore careers in medicine and allied health fields.

It was crafted to inspire and equip students with the knowledge necessary for a successful career in medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy or biomedical science.

The symposium offered a dynamic and interactive experience for the 124 sixth form students, featuring a range of activities designed to bridge the gap between aspirations and actionable steps.

Students participated in three morning activities – the ‘Journey to Medicine’ session provided an overview of the undergraduate Medicine degree; the ‘Q&A with Doctors’ allowed participants to engage with physicians including Dr Pengiran Nuoorul Shahidah binti Pengiran Zainal Abidin, Dr Nur Asmaa Farah binti Haji Mohd Yussop and Dr Fathin Mumtazah binti Haji Abdul Manap, who shared their professional insights; and the ‘Work Experience: Clinical Case’ session, which simulated clinical decision-making and procedures.

In the afternoon, the symposium featured a panel discussion titled ‘Journey to Healthcare’, where speakers from healthcare fields shared their career experiences and insights.

Panellists included Dr Hajah Hanisah binti Haji Sharif, Dr Kok Ei Chuen, Dr Asma Atiyah binti Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Abdul Hamid and Dr Hajah Asmah binti Hajah Husaini.

A personal statement workshop, hosted by HRDS Education Services, provided tips for students to enhance their applications.

The students also explored university booths representing institutions from Brunei, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Ireland, gaining insights into educational programmes and opportunities. They also participated in a mentorship programme, connecting with medical student mentors for personalised guidance.

The symposium hosted an essay competition titled ‘Evaluate the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles among Brunei’s youth and its significance in achieving Brunei Vision 2035’.

Lyeenah Hamidiah binti Haji Abdul Hamid from Jerudong International School won first place in the essay competition while Alexander Kheong Moncherry from Meragang Sixth Form Centre secured second place and Nur Umairah binti Haji Mohammad Alimin from Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College took third place. – Azlan Othman

Prospective medical students watch a demonstration. PHOTO: BMSA
A group photo at the event. PHOTO: BMSA