Study in Brunei Darussalam
The Evolution of Education in Brunei Darussalam
Formal Education in Brunei Darussalam began in 1912. Since then it has evolved over the years to meet all levels of challenges, local, regional and global. Through the institution of systematic and structured reforms, with respect to education policy, structure, curriculum, assessment and qualifications, and professional development, Brunei Darussalam aspires to transform its education landscape in support of the nation’s drive to realize its vision 2035 (Wawasan Brunei Darussalam 2035).
The vision statement of the Ministry of Education is “Quality Education towards a Developed, Peaceful and Prosperous Nation” and the mission statement is “To Provide Holistic Education to Achieve Fullest Potential for All”. It comes with the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2007-2011. The strategic plan envisages the need for change through the provision of a sound education system that is more meaningful and ultimately, more effective in preparing students for learning in this complex digital society.
The Ministry of Education also has a policy of providing a minimum of 12 years of education. This comprises seven years in primary education (inclusive of one year in pre-school) and five years in secondary. In view of the importance of education in the life of an individual, the Ministry has made the basic 9-year education mandatory for every child.
The Ministry of Education Strategic Plan 2007-2011, outlined its mission to provide holistic education to achieve fullest potential for all. The Ministry of Education (MoE) is committed to providing an educational system that progress our young generation for the future role as capable, creative and thinking citizen. This is in view that students will spend their adult lives in a multitasking, multifaceted, technology-driven, diverse and vibrant world, and they must be equipped to do so. Thus, Brunei Darussalam’s education system aims to nurture every child and to help all students to discover their talents, realize their full potential, and develop passion for life-long learning.
In January 2009, the MoE has embarked on the National Education System for the 21st Century or Sistem Pendidikan Negara Abad Ke-21, in short SPN21. The SPN21 brought three major changes in the education system namely, the education structure; the curriculum and assessment; and technical education.
The SPN21 allows highly capable students to complete their secondary education in a shorter period of time (four years) instead of five years. The SPN21 provides multiple pathways for students to choose programmes that suit their capabilities, interests, inclinations, growth and development; thereby catering to their needs. It also reflects the ministry’s desire to ensure that our students complete at least five years of secondary education before embarking on postsecondary education or employment. This is enshrined in the National Education Policy (1993) of providing every student with at least 12 years of education. Nevertheless it is mandatory for all school aged children between the ages of six and below 15 years to attend 9 years of formal education (Mandatory Education Order 2007).