A TOTAL of 12 Bruneian students studying abroad on government scholarships have achieved first class honours in their respective degree courses among 218 graduates for 2009.

Out of the 218 graduates, four succeeded with diplomas, 16 with Higher National Diplomas, 187 with Bachelor of Degrees and 11 who graduated in medicine.

During a ceremony to celebrate the achievements of overseas government scholarship graduates at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday, Acting Minister of Education Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Pg Hj Abd Rahman said that the students' success indicated that "Brunei Boleh", or Brunei can.

"This has brought pride to all of us," he said.

"These students have established Brunei's reputation in higher academic fields on international shores, which shows that they are able to compete with intelligent students from all over the world."

He lauded some graduates for their motivation and determination to continue to pursue degree courses, Masters and PhDs.

"I understand that you students, have been motivated to excel in your studies. You have achieved a higher level with 10 students having been given scholarships to pursue their PhDs, 124 in their Masters and eight in degree courses," he said.

Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd advised students to have the right "morals and character" to achieve academic excellence and to return to the Sultanate to serve the country.

"This is an opportunity that I hope will not be squandered because young students like yourselves can achieve academic excellence if you combine good morals and character. Insya Allah, this will speed up your ability in obtaining important positions in any organisation in this country in the future," said the acting minister.

He added: "This is why we want confident and young energetic youths who could really be future leaders and top officers in facing 21st century global challenges."

He also encouraged graduates who were keen to serve in the civil service to contribute with dedication and sincerity. "Share your wisdom that you have to the nation through any public or private agencies."

Assistant Director of the Ministry of Education's Scholarship Section Hj Azis Hj Nayan said that the ministry was pleased to award scholarships to graduates wishing to study further.

He said: "The government is sending the students as a major effort to build quality human resources to speed up social change and produce a productive nation as 'main movers' towards achieving national development and realising Vision 2035."

During the ceremony, the 12 first class honours' graduates were awarded with certificates from the Ministry of Education.

In Courtesy of The Brunei Times