| Syazwani Hj Rosli |
BRUNEI Darussalam still requires more graduates who have technical and vocational qualifications, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, Minister of Communications said yesterday.
According to the minister, the statistics provided by the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) have shown that about 16,000 jobs, which require technical and tertiary qualifications, are still filled by foreign workers.
This was emphasised by the minister in his speech during the 24th Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Convocation Ceremony held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.
He also said that employment and entrepreneurship should not be taken for granted. Graduates must always measure their abilities with the working environment.
He added that the employability level of the graduates with technical qualifications have improved to almost 75 per cent.
“In developing a sustainable economy, we need a large working population to further generate a dynamic business activity. This is in line with the efforts of the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in encouraging businesses and a market environment that is conducive to economic growth and development,” he continued.
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, Minister of Communications, presenting a certificate to a graduate.
Graduates pose with their certificates at the 24th Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Convocation Ceremony held yesterday at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
He highlighted that the Ministry of Communications is currently active in implementing initiatives that can open up new employment and business opportunities. He said that the communication sector has recorded the nation’s third largest expenditure in the context of household expenditure. This sector, he added, is important for a dynamic society’s prosperity and development.
He also expressed his appreciation to IBTE for the collaboration that has been built with the ministry which highlights the need of developing skilled human capital.
“Through our air and maritime transport, we will continue to strive in enhancing connectivity with countries and destinations that have importance in terms of economy and security,” he said.
He emphasised that IBTE played an important role in building national capacity and generating labour and skilled workers to meet the competencies outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organisation and International Maritime Organisation.
The minister highlighted that among the fields required include the vocational and technical fields in air traffic control, navigation and maritime efficiency as well as public transportation.
“The result will not only make locals become more qualified but they can also compete in grabbing employment opportunities either at the national or international level.”
The post Brunei still needs more technical, vocational graduates appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.