Recent KUPU SB graduates share their academic journey.
The emotions surrounding any life achievement are often profound and complex, often characterised by an immense sense of relief. After an arduous and demanding period of commitment – especially in academics – the sensation of relief is a prevalent sentiment.
The 13th Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Convocation ceremony was a celebration of these remarkable achievements and personal journeys.
While not all graduates had an easy path to completion, many faced significant challenges and demonstrated exceptional perseverance.
Nooraimah binti Sibuang, who achieved her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Arabic Language, exemplifies this spirit of determination.
Her academic odyssey spanned about six years, marked by unwavering dedication and countless obstacles. Her research primarily focused on the teaching and learning of Arabic language in Brunei Darussalam.
Passion ignited her pursuit of a PhD in Arabic language. Before embarking on this scholarly endeavour, Dr Nooraimah had already obtained a postgraduate diploma in Arabic language for non-native speakers at KUPU SB, a Bachelor’s degree in Syariah Islamiyyah, and a Master’s in Fiqh and Usul Fiqh.
The PhD graduate’s journey was far from smooth as the limited availability of Arabic language resources, coupled with the scarcity of Malay and English reference materials, created substantial hurdles.
“I spent considerable time translating the materials I needed, a daunting task I took on with determination,” said Dr Nooraimah, and adding to her challenges was the unexpected disruption brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, which hindered her field research.
Despite these setbacks, Dr Nooraimah tenaciously persisted in her pursuit of academic excellence. Her PhD journey, which commenced in August 2017, culminated in May 2023, a testament to her indomitable spirit.
Dr Nooraimah’s love for the Arabic language was the driving force behind her academic aspirations.
However, even with a profound passion, she confessed to moments of doubt and the desire to give up. Yet, she remained resolute, reminding herself of the substantial investments of time, money, and effort that had brought her to this point.
“It had become too late, and it didn’t seem appropriate to back out; the wiser course was to proceed steadily, step by step,” she remarked.
While in the midst of her job search, Dr Nooraimah has set her sights on imparting her knowledge by teaching the Arabic language to the public and the increasing interest in learning Arabic in Brunei has given rise to a demand for such classes.
Seizing this opportunity, she now teaches through the Brunei Arabic Language Association, conducting classes every Friday and Sunday.
“My educational journey not only imparted a profound understanding of Islamic finance and its practical applications in daily life. It also emphasised the value of hands-on teaching experiences,” shared a Bachelor’s Degree graduate in religious Teaching with a minor in Islamic finance, Ummi Nur Su’Aidah binti Sufarin.
One particularly valuable experience that enriched her academic years was participation in a teaching training course held over two separate semesters.
These experiences, which encompassed classroom management and critical thinking skills development, proved instrumental in shaping her growth as a trainee teacher, especially with the engagement in a variety of co-curricular activities organised by schools during these teaching training sessions.
In her reflection, Ummi also emphasised the deep impact of Islamic finance on our daily lives and its role in fostering a sound financial foundation for individuals. The key benefits in this sector, she noted, was the role of effective financial management in ensuring individual well-being.
Another accomplished graduate, Musfirah binti Haji Kassim, not only earned her Master’s in Islamic education but did so while working as a relief teacher, skilfully managing her time and energy.
Her journey as a contract relief teacher under the Ministry of Education (MoE) served as a motivation to further her education, despite the demanding roles she played.
In her daily life, Musfirah, a mother of three, adeptly balanced the responsibilities of teaching, studying, and household chores, which presented her with substantial challenges.
“My choice to pursue a Master’s in Islamic education stemmed from my aspiration to enrich my teaching knowledge and broaden my horizons in the education sector,” she shared.
With this academic milestone achieved, she harbours ambitions of continuing her studies at an even higher level, all the while diligently seeking permanent employment.
Last, but not least, was Muhammad Faiq Izuddin bin Sabtu who embarked on a journey of educational growth as a full-time graduate pursuing a postgraduate diploma in religious teaching.
“My passion for teaching had been a lifelong aspiration, instilled within me at a young age,” said Muhammad Faiq.
“Venturing into the field of education allowed me to not only hone my teaching potentials, but also cultivate the credentials of a true professional educator.”
When asked about the keys to academic success, Muhammad Faiq underscored the significance of time management.
“As students, it is imperative to skilfully manage time by assigning priority to tasks, irrespective of their involvement in various extracurricular activities,” stressed the Postgraduate Diploma holder.
KUPU SB, as an esteemed Islamic higher education institution, has a noble mission: to nurture educators and leaders who embody piety, moral integrity, knowledge, and open-mindedness, all while upholding the tenets of Islamic faith and the principles of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).
The institution diligently equips its students to not only meet the challenges of this modern era but also to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. – Rokiah Mahmud
