Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Sustainability) Dr Haji Abdul Hanif Dato Paduka Haji Mahadi, emphasised that programmes such as ERASMUS+ offer opportunities for students and staff to engage with diverse cultures and educational systems, fostering a globally minded academic community.
He said this during the ‘Journey Beyond Borders: Unveiling ERASMUS+ Experiences’ on Thursday.
The event, organised by the Office of the Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Sustainability) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), highlighted the transformative impact of the ERASMUS+ mobility programme.
It attracted around 50 attendees, including UBD staff, students, and the public. The event featured several speakers who shared their firsthand experiences with ERASMUS+. Associate Professor at University of Patras Dr Eleni Zagana delivered a detailed presentation on the programme, reflecting on her experiences and the nine-year collaboration between University of Patras and UBD through the ERASMUS+ mobility programme.
Geology students from the Faculty of Science (FOS), Pengiran Khairunnisa Nazirah binti Pengiran Dr Karim, Siti Nuradlina Misli, and Nurul Azrina Boey, shared how the ERASMUS+ programme transformed their academic journeys and discussed the cultural exchange and personal growth they experienced during their time abroad.
The event’s key highlight was a virtual presentation by Alkmini Tzoumaka, the first ERASMUS+ exchange student to Brunei, joining the session from Greece.
She shared her perspective on the reciprocal nature of the ERASMUS+ programme, praising Brunei’s commitment to nature conservation and the supportive environment at UBD, allowing her to grow academically, professionally, and personally.
Dr Zagana’s second presentation focused on the collaborative research conducted by her and UBD geology students in Greece.
Senior education officer at MoE Dr Shi Siong Tang highlighted the role of ERASMUS+ National Focal Points in the Sultanate and discussed other ERASMUS+ opportunities available to Bruneians.
UBD Director of Research Professor Basilios Tsikouras commended the ERASMUS+ programme for its role in building bridges between nations and inspiring students.
Reflecting on the event’s significance, he said, “We hope that by sharing firsthand insights from peers and researchers about the transformative experiences gained through study abroad opportunities, this event will enhance cultural exchange and encourage Bruneian students to pursue global learning, ultimately contributing to their personal and professional development.”
The event also included an informal question-and-answer session and a networking opportunity, fostering connections and discussions on potential collaborations.
The talk series underscores UBD’s dedication to promoting global academic collaboration, cultural exchange, and international mobility. This initiative aligns with Brunei Vision 2035, reinforcing UBD’s role in cultivating a globally connected academic community.
