BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) is looking forward to more programmes developed by non-government organisations (NGOs), its minister said.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong said NGOs can contribute in introducing programmes that further enhance what is taught in classrooms as students spend most of their time outside schools.

“We look forward to the participation of NGOs in implementing programmes in the MOE, particularly in the area of character or personal development of students,” the minister told The Brunei Times on the sidelines of the launch of “Belia Brunei Berbakti, or Devoted Bruneian Youth programme.

He said the ministry welcomed NGOs to work with them. He added: “There are so many (education) NGOs and we have been working with them in various aspects.”

The minister said SMARTER (The Society for the Management of Autism-Related Issues - Training, Education and Resources of Brunei) and Brunei English Language Teachers’ Association (BELTA) were among those the ministry worked with.

YB Pehin Dato (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar said the youth programme organised by Persatuan Kemajuan Insan (KESAN) was geared towards personal development, and gave participants the opportunity to develop themselves to become good citizens.

During the opening of the programme, the minister said the youth programme would have a major impact on participants, and let them understand more about themselves and one another.

“Understanding leadership and ethics can be the basis to start building leadership qualities. But before you lead, you should know more about yourself before you can lead others,” he added.

The minister also said the education system in Brunei is adapting to changes around the world in light of globalisation.

“Education needs to change and meet the current requirements of the world. This is to ensure that youth have the knowledge and skills required in the 21st century.”

YB Pehin Dato (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar said entrepreneurship is an indication of a change of mindset in youth to explore greater opportunities.

The launch of the youth programme was held at Yayasan Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah Secondary School.

The Brunei Times