The National Education System for the 21st Century (SPN21) provides multiple pathways for individuals to progress in the education system while providing options to work in the government or the private sector as well as an equal opportunity for them to progress and be marketable.
This was said by Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, was one of the panellists at the Career Forum organised by Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday.
The forum was themed ‘The current trends of job markets for graduates in the context of technology, creative industry and entrepreneurship’.
Dr Haji Azman continued, “Teachers must be better than the education system and in order to produce quality students academically, quality teachers are important.”
He also outlined the policies implemented by the MoE to prepare students for the creative industry and entrepreneurship while highlighting the Digital Economy Masterplan to turn the country into a smart nation.
Dr Haji Azman also pointed out the digital transformation in the MoE, which included the availability of wireless broadband, providing teachers laptops and Internet access, even those teaching in remote areas such as Sukang and Melilas in the Belait District, to ensure the schools are digitally connected.
He also called on students to continue learning.
“After completing your studies, you should never be satisfied with what you have gained.
What you get at the end of your studies in higher institutions is only a stepping stone to acquire new skills.
“In the future, jobs will require creative and analytical skills, so never stop developing these skills,” he added.
Meanwhile, Head of Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) Secretariat at the Prime Minister’s Office Dr Hajah Siti Haziah binti Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin said, “Cybersecurity, data analytics, Internet of Things (IOT) and artificial intelligence are the most sought after skills in the future. Technology is changing the way we work, the skills required and the type of work.”
She called on the youth to upskill and reskill and added, “People tend to wait for the perfect job, and miss what is right in front of you. Everyone needs to get on the career ladder as soon as possible because if you don’t, you may get rusty which will reflect badly on your resume.”
Chief Executive Officer at Brunei Institute of Leadership and Islamic Finance (BILIF) Hajah Sufinah binti Haji Sahat urged graduates to join the private sector to gain expertise.
“Bruneians can flourish in the creative industry and we have the potential to grow as we are not short of innovation. Entrepreneurs must be innovative and they must explore other countries and learn to be better,” said Hajah Sufinah.
Meanwhile, the Co-Chair of UBD Career Forum Hajah Hartini binti Haji Mohd Yussof said that the career forum help students’ explore opportunities in the industry. – Azlan Othman
