Rokiah Mahmud
Self-empowerment programmes can shape students into virtuous, responsible disciplined role models in possession of good values to preserve the sovereignty of the nation in line with the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).
This was said by Acting Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Chin Wei Keh during the launch of the programme.
Some 125 students of Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) under the first cohort of ISQ and iSkills ISQ are enrolled in the 90-day programme from August 20 to November 17.
The acting permanent secretary said the ministry’s initiative enhances and helps students face the present day challenges.
“Students, as the country’s youth, are valuable assets for the future that need guidance so as to polish their potential,” he said.
However, he added, the initiatives and goals need support from all parties including parents and guardians. He advised students to embrace the opportunity and knowledge delivered by their trainers.
The programme is in collaboration with several agencies including IBTE, the National Service Section (BKBN) and Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) for students taking ISQ, iSkills ISQ.
The programme also aims to inculcate and strengthen integrity, discipline, resilience, competitiveness and sustainability.
The ISQ and iSkills ISQ programmes involve iSkills ISQ in Marking and Fitting in Rigging, iSkills Scaffolding and ISQ in Welding.
Throughout the programme, students will be exposed to various aspects, including self-empowerment, religion and nationhood, discipline, physical, entrepreneurship and community service.
Students need to complete their training for three months apart from the 12 months learning at institutions and industries to be awarded with ISQ/iSkill ISQ certificates.
