Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman and Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh embarked on a series of visits to government and private primary schools in Brunei yesterday. The purpose of their visits was to inspect the schools‘ infrastructure and facilities, with a specific focus on areas such as ablution, prayer, dining, and waiting areas.
During their visits, the ministers observed the implementation of teaching and learning sessions following the integration of religious subjects into the general education system. This integration aims to provide students with a well-rounded education that includes both academic and religious teachings. The ministers were keen to review and witness firsthand how this integration was being carried out in the schools they visited.
In addition to inspecting the facilities, the ministers also took the opportunity to engage with school leaders and teachers. This allowed them to gain valuable insights into the challenges and successes of implementing the integration of religious subjects into the general education curriculum. By interacting with those directly involved in the education system, the ministers were able to better understand the impact of their policies and initiatives.
The schools visited by the ministers included Delima Satu Primary School, Kampong Pulaie Primary School, and PGGMB School in Sungai Akar in the Brunei-Muara District. Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim visited Junjongan Primary School, Lumapas Primary School, and Riverside School in Kampong Masin.
The working visit extended to a total of 48 government and private schools across all four districts in Brunei. Senior officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Education also accompanied the ministers on their visits, demonstrating the government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the integration of religious subjects into the general education system.
As the integration of religious subjects into general education commenced, lower primary students and teachers bid farewell to their religious schools. Parents expressed their hopes for a smooth transition and the success of their children’s studies, thanking teachers and school friends for their support. Some schools held farewell receptions for students, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in their educational journey.
Private schools also shared their commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for their students. Plans were made to introduce additional facilities such as portable cabins, ablution areas, holding rooms for late pick-up, and lunch spaces. Schools without canteens even considered installing vending machines to cater to the students‘ needs.
Overall, the visits by the ministers and senior officials highlighted the government’s dedication to providing a holistic education that incorporates both academic and religious teachings. By engaging with school leaders, teachers, and students, they were able to assess the progress of the integration of religious subjects into the general education system and address any challenges that may arise. The commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for students and the provision of necessary facilities demonstrate the government’s efforts to enhance the quality of education in Brunei.