Bandar Seri Begawan - The President of the Philippines Gloria` Macapagal Arroyo has been keenly monitoring this project, which is part of her continuing efforts, laser focused determination and firm resolve to upgrade the human resources` capabilities and shills of our Muslim brothers and sisters. Arroyo, has been working tirelessly to improve the quality of education in southern Philippines as an integral part of the overall roadmap for development in Mindanao. There is much to gain from Brunei`s successful experience in integrating Islamic; teachings with the standard curriculum. Brunei`s moderate Islamic teachings stand as a distinctive model for religious instruction for the benefit of our Muslim countrymen back home.
This was stated by Ms Virginia H Benavidez, Philippines Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, in her speech during a certificate presentation ceremony yesterday for Mindanao students that received Certificate of Teaching Arabic as a Second Language at UBD.
"Our Madrasah educational system is now a vital component of the national educational system, similar to the Christian and Chinese schools systems. Arabic language and Islamic values have already been included in the public school curriculum. The programme is implemented in schools throughout the Philippines.
"Our Muslim scholars from the first intake into the UBD Certificate Programme are already involved in the implementation of our Madrasah programme. Some are working in public and private schools, while others are involved in an internationally-funded initiative that seeks to further improve the curriculum of the Madrasah Programme," she added. Yesterday, a total of nine Mindanao students received their certificate of attendance, after completing the two-semester programme on Certificate of Teaching Arabic as a Second Language during the presentation ceremony at the Senate: Room, Chancellor Hall, and UBD.
The event was organised by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Education with the cooperation of the International Office.
On hand to present the certificates was the guest of honour, Dr Hj Junaidi bin Hj Abd Rahman, Acting Vice Chancellor. Also present were Dr Hj Serbini bin Hj Tahir, Assistant Vice Chancellor, principal.
Source : www.brudirect.com (7 Januari 2008)
