The Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Advocating Lifelong Learning for a Sustainable Future (BIBD ALAF) programme recently celebrated the achievement of Lai Fook Looeng, who graduated with a Master of Pharmacy (MPHarm) degree from the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom (UK).
In 2020, Lai named a BIBD ALAF Scholar, received a fully-funded university education through the programme.
His passion for cardiovascular medications will be further pursued during his Foundation Training at Torbay Hospital in the UK.
“I am grateful for the scholarship opportunity from BIBD ALAF. I am now obtaining my pharmacy licence and hope to apply and expand my current knowledge to enhance patient care,” said Lai, 24.
Lai joined the BIBD ALAF programme in 2015 as part of BIBD ALAF’s batch two. Despite facing challenging living conditions, including a lack of direct water supply and reliance on a generator for electricity, Lai’s unwavering dedication to his studies has seen him excel consistently.
His academic journey is a testament to both his perseverance and support provided by BIBD ALAF. Achieving an outstanding 85 per cent academic performance over 10 years, Lai earned the BIBD ALAF STAR Award annually, it said in a statement.
Through comprehensive support mechanisms including financial aid, mentorship and specialised training, BIBD ALAF seeks to level the playing field for underprivileged students.
These efforts are in direct support of Brunei Vision 2035, which promotes inclusivity that envisions a future where the nation’s youth lead in various sectors, including healthcare, contributing to the nation’s prosperity.
The scholarship embodies BIBD’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG), particularly Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Lai’s journey from humble beginnings to academic excellence epitomises the transformative power of education and community support, which underlies the bank’s commitment toward the BIBD ALAF programme.
As the first in his family to graduate from university, he hopes that his success story can be an inspiration to many others.
The programme also reflects the bank’s commitment to give back to the community.
