August 18, 2023
The Brunei Shell Joint Venture (BSJV) Companies held the BSJV Scholarship Scheme contract signing ceremony on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at the Indera Kayangan Ballroom, The Empire Brunei. Seven (7) outstanding candidates were awarded with scholarships to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom in the field of Engineering (Aircraft, Mechanical and Chemical) and Data Science.
Present as the Guest of Honour was Yang Mulia Dr. Awang Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education. Also in attendance were Yang Mulia Awang Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, Yang Mulia Awang Haji Md Azmi bin Haji Md Hanifah, Acting Managing Director and Commercial Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) Co. Sdn. Bhd., Yang Mulia Dayang Hjh Farida binti Dato Talib, Managing Director of Brunei Liquified Natural Gas (BLNG) Sdn. Bhd., Yang Mulia Dayang Erwienna Shafienaz binti Abu Bakar, BSP Human Resources Director, senior government officials and officials from the awarding BSJV Companies.
In his opening remarks, Awang Haji Md Azmi bin Haji Md Hanifah emphasised the importance of being future-ready in an increasingly dynamic world.
“What the last few years have taught us is that – the world is ever changing, and we must be ready for any change that comes in our way. The future will require different skill sets and capabilities, as the world transitions into a more digitally oriented economy with the backdrop of sustainability and climate change,” shared Awang Haji Md Azmi. “There are many bright young talents here, and I hope you will take this scholarship opportunity as an avenue to be future-ready by pursuing valuable knowledge, experience and expertise that will progress our country to meet Wawasan 2035 and beyond.”
Awang Ahmad Faid bin Haji Ismat, In-Service recipient of the scholarship who will be continuing his studies in Data Science at the University of Sheffield, shared his gratitude on receiving the award.
“I'm glad that BSP continues to develop experienced professionals. After a decade at BSP, it's becoming clear that we can uncover valuable insights from huge and complex datasets using Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and
Data Science. I aspire to further progress the digital transformation journey at BSP upon my return. I intend to contribute by enhancing decision-making, optimizing operations and providing the company with a competitive advantage.”
The event also saw the presentation of the “First Class Achiever 2022/2023” to nine (9) students presented by Yang Mulia Dr. Awang Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education.
Dayang Nur A’ishah binti Haji Khairul Amir Shahrin, a first-class achiever who studied General Engineering in Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), commented “My utmost appreciation to BSP for a once in a lifetime opportunity. The prestigious scholarship provided me sufficient resources throughout my studies in UBD and I have been exposed to the real-life competitive working environment during my work attachment in BSP. I am looking forward to joining BSP this September to contribute to the betterment of our nation and country.”
The BSJV Scholarship program has been in place for more than half a century, beginning in 1972. To date, more than 830 scholarships have been granted, giving young Bruneians the opportunity to pursue higher education. The scheme echoes His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah titah during the recent celebration of the 18th National Youth Day where His Majesty expressed hope for the youth to be the catalysts of change for a brighter future and capable of realising the country's aspiration of Wawasan 2035.