BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

FIFTY students enrolled in Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Institute (ITQSHHB), the lowest intake in four years.

Thirty males and 20 females took their oath in front of teachers, parents and fellow students to show their dedication to the programme at the institute yesterday.

The students were selected from 234 candidates who applied to the institute.

Statistics have shown that the number of students fluctuate each year since 2006. The first intake was 39, and increased steadily each year to 53 in 2009.

The highest intake was 64 in 2012. Since 2006, there were more males, 225 compared to 189 females.

This year marks the 21st intake of male students and the 19th intake of female students.

In an interview with The Brunei Times, Acting Principal of ITQSHHB Ustaz Pg Hj Haslin Pg Hj Ali hoped the students would consider pursuing other professions besides becoming a religious teacher.

He hoped the institute would produce students in the fields of science, economics, but with a background knowledge of the Quran.

Former students of the institute who were in the science stream have proceeded to do their PhDs, whilst some are currently working in the government sector.

“I hope that wherever they are, they will be ready to contribute their knowledge of the Quran in their respective working environments as well as to society”, added Ustaz Pengiran Hj Haslin.

In his speech, the acting principal hoped the new students would be prepared for the course.

“They should also be aware that studying the Quran is a very noble and admirable endeavour.”

Ustazah Dr Hajah Masnon Hj Ibrahim, rector of Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College, said the success of the students will, in turn, be the success of the institution.

“Students can continue to contribute to the success of this institution by playing a role towards the realisation of Zikir Nation.”

Yesterday’s event marked the end of orientation for the new intake which ran for four days from January 15.

Students also took part in an intensive Tahsin Al-Quran class from January 7-11 to prepare students for the focus required for the Al-Quran recitation. Formal classes begin next week.

The Brunei Times