Bandar Seri Begawan - It was an auspicious day for 60 Awang Semaun Secondary School (SMAS) students yesterday as they represented the school's first intake to receive the Edexcel BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate for 2011/2012 during a ceremony held at the SMAS Conference Room.

SMAS Principal of 20 years, Hjh Kamsiah Hj Muhd Yussof, presented the certificates to the students in the presence of proud parents, family members and SMAS teachers.

Thirty students received the Edexcel BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate in ADM (Art, Design and -Media), while the 30 others earned the Edexcel BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate in HTT (Hospitality Travel and Tourism).

In an interview with the Bulletin, Hjh Kamsiah explained that the programme - introduced by the Ministry of Education earlier last year - provides "an alternative pathway" to a higher education for students.

"The first intake of students responded very well, with some really excelling in their preliminary coursework," she noted.

Although still in the early stage, Hjh Kamsiah believes the programme has assisted students with the potential and willingness to be successful in the technical aspects of education,. which is part of the ministry's strategic plan towards providing the nation with a holistic education to achieve their fullest potential.

"I am proud of my students today. I am proud that they have become 'somebody' in the community, rather than becoming a 'nobody'. After all, these students are our future generation who will lead our country's development," she said.

Meanwhile, Roslin binti Kalong, whose son Mohd Syariffudin Anas graduated in the ADM course, expressed her joy at his achievement.

"I was very impressed to see his 'batik' design, which he created with his group of friends for a school project. Creativity has always been in our family, but to see this being applied as part of his coursework, I believe he will have a bright future," she added.

Roslin intends to encourage her son to continue his studies at Level 2 of the similar course, allowing him to learn more and gain experience in preperation for the "real world," which she believes is becoming more "challenging."

Her eldest son's graduation was another reason to celebrate for the family, as they also recently became one of the recipients of a home in the new housing project in Kampong Ayer.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin