The Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), marked a significant milestone in advancing regional collaboration and digital education through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Taylor’s University during an official academic and strategic engagement visit to Malaysia from 19–23 May 2026.
The MoU signing ceremony, held under the theme “Digital Synergy: Redefining Student Experience; A Joint University VR Initiative”, reflects a shared commitment to advancing innovation in lifelong learning, micro-credentials, digital pedagogy, and Virtual Reality (VR)-enabled education.
The UBD delegation was led by Dr Nik Ani Afiqah Haji Mohamad Tuah, Deputy Director of C3L; Dr Atika Qazi, Programme Leader; and Pg Md Wafiq Ghiyathuddin bin Pg Hj Airudin, Technical Officer.

The collaboration is expected to open new opportunities in:
• Joint micro-credential and professional development programmes
• Research and innovation in immersive learning technologies
• Student-centred digital learning ecosystems
• Flexible lifelong learning pathways and credit transfer frameworks
• Regional academic and technical collaboration

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr Nik highlighted that the future of education requires institutions to move beyond traditional learning models and embrace innovation that is meaningful, inclusive, and responsive to changing societal and workforce needs.
“This partnership is more than a formal agreement. It represents a shared vision to create future-ready learning environments that combine innovation, accessibility, and lifelong learning opportunities for learners across the region,” she stated.
As part of the visit, the delegation also conducted strategic benchmarking engagements with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Sunway University, the Malaysia Counselling Association, and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Discussions focused on micro-credential ecosystems, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL/APEL), accreditation frameworks, digital learning innovation, counselling standards, and emerging technologies in education.
The initiative aligns closely with UBD’s strategic priorities in internationalisation, digital transformation, flexible education, and lifelong learning development. It further strengthens C3L’s role as a national and regional driver of innovative lifelong learning systems and micro-credential implementation.

The collaboration also carries broader strategic value for Brunei Darussalam by supporting:
• National human capital development
• Digital capability enhancement
• Industry-responsive education and upskilling
• Regional visibility and academic diplomacy
• Future-ready workforce preparation aligned with technological advancement

Through partnerships such as this, UBD continues to position Brunei Darussalam as an active contributor within the ASEAN higher education ecosystem, particularly in the areas of lifelong learning, digital innovation, and sustainable educational transformation.
The visit concluded with both institutions expressing strong commitment towards translating the partnership into impactful programmes, collaborative initiatives, and long-term academic engagement that will benefit learners, educators, and communities in both countries.

Congratulations to Dk Hjh Norakmarul Ihsan binti Pg Hj Sabtu – UniBridge Programme Coordinator on being awarded the Pingat Indah Kerja Baik (PIKB) today! 🎖️
A well-deserved recognition of your dedication, commitment, and valuable contributions to UBD and the UniBridge programme. We are truly proud of you and wishing you continued success and more achievements ahead!

The Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), in collaboration with the Innovation in Teaching and Learning Centre (InTELECT), organised a training programme on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPEL), facilitated by Associate Professor Dr Asnul Dahar Bin Minghat, Director of the APEL Centre at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) expert.

The programme was conducted across multiple sessions on 20–21 April, 22–23 April, 27–28 April, and 5–6 May 2026, held at the ILIA Executive Room, UBD. Designed to support lifelong learning pathways, the training focused on how prior experiential learning can be formally recognised within higher education systems.

RPEL provides a structured approach to acknowledging knowledge and skills gained outside traditional academic settings, including professional experience, vocational training, and informal learning. The sessions introduced participants to two key pathways: RPEL A, which enables individuals without formal qualifications to gain admission into academic programmes based on demonstrated experience, and RPEL C, which allows learners to receive academic credit for specific modules by evidencing prior competencies.

Throughout the course, participants explored the principles, policies, and practical applications of RPEL. They were guided on how to identify and reflect on relevant experiential learning, map their experiences to learning outcomes, and compile structured portfolios. The training also emphasised critical reflection, self-assessment, and engagement with assessment processes to ensure alignment with academic standards.

Led by Dr Asnul, who brings over two decades of expertise in TVET and prior learning accreditation, the programme also benefited from his extensive leadership experience in higher education and international contributions to vocational education. His facilitation provided participants with both theoretical understanding and practical insights into implementing RPEL effectively.

The programme reflects UBD’s ongoing commitment to expanding flexible and inclusive learning pathways, supporting adult learners, and strengthening the national ecosystem for lifelong learning.

Themed ‘Riang Raya di Taman UBD‘ (Joy of Raya in UBD’s Garden’, the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration highlighted Brunei Darussalam’s rich flora and unrivalled biodiversity, with the event maintaining UBD’s strong stance on sustainability -encouraging the use of reusable containers, tumblers and cutlery as well as being watchful of food wastage.

Centre for Lifelong Learning contributed as one of the many food tables on display.

The C3L Open Day and Lifelong Learning Festival 2026 took place on 31 March 2026 at the Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA) Building, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

The programme began with an opening ceremony, where the Director of the Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L), Associate Professor Dr Jose Hernandez Santos, highlighted the importance of continuous education. He noted that the event brought together educators, policymakers, industry partners, and learners who share a common understanding—that learning extends beyond formal education and continues throughout one’s life. He also emphasised C3L’s role in supporting this journey by providing flexible and relevant learning opportunities for individuals at different stages of their careers.

The Guest of Honour, UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri Haji Kifle, underscored the growing importance of lifelong learning in driving economic resilience and national progress. He pointed out that this vision aligns with Wawasan Brunei 2035, which emphasises the development of a highly educated, skilled, and adaptable population.

Following the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor presented the Best Micro-credential Awards across both new and established categories.

Best Micro-credential Awards – New Submissions

• First Place: Introduction to Sustainability: Small Actions, Big Impact – Dr Roslinawati Roslan (SHBIE)
• Second Place: Mastering APA 7 in Style – Michelle Poh Wan Pei (Language Centre)
• Third Place: Project Management for Entrepreneurs – Dr Mohamed Syazwan Ab Talib (UBDSBE)
• Mastering Systematic Reviews for Strategic Decisions – Dr Zaidah Rizidah Murang (PAPRSB IHS)

Best Micro-credential Awards – Established

• First Place: Autonomy, Voice, and Inclusive Pedagogy – Dayangku Ratna Suriani Pengiran Haji Osman (SHBIE)
• Second Place: Mastering Qualitative Insights for Business – Dr Nurul Afiqah Haji Nor Amin (UBDSBE)
• Third Place: Introduction to Board Game Design – Dr Noreena Liu (FASS)

In his remarks, Dr Hazri reflected on UBD’s progress in micro-credential development since 2022, noting that these programmes were designed to be accessible, relevant, and aligned with future workforce needs. He explained that the micro-credentials are structured as stackable pathways, allowing learners to progress towards recognised qualifications such as Micro-Bachelor, Bachelor, Micro-Master, and Master degrees.

He also shared that since 2024, initiatives led by C3L in collaboration with the Innovation in Teaching and Learning Centre (InTELECT) have trained more than 200 academics from UBD and other higher education institutions across Brunei Darussalam. These efforts, he said, contribute to strengthening the broader national ecosystem for lifelong learning.

A key highlight of the morning session was the focus on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), explored through a keynote presentation by Dr Asnul Dahar Minghat, followed by a panel discussion. The panel featured experts including Associate Professor Dr Asnul Dahar Minghat from UTM Malaysia, Dr Shaikh Khalid Shaikh Haji Ahmad from Serikandi Group of Companies, and Haji Mohammad Jaafar Haji Johari from the Lifelong Learning Centre (L3C), Ministry of Education. The session was moderated by C3L Deputy Director Dr Anni @ Nik Ani Afiqah Haji Mohamad Tuah.

RPL was highlighted as an important mechanism for recognising skills and knowledge gained through work experience, non-formal training, and informal learning. It provides pathways for adult learners to enter academic programmes or receive credit for specific modules or micro-credentials based on demonstrated competencies. Together with micro-credentials, RPL reflects a broader shift in higher education towards valuing both formal qualifications and experiential learning.

Throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to visit exhibition booths by organisations such as OpenLearning, the Brunei Institute of Leadership & Islamic Finance (BILIF), and Job Centre Brunei. The afternoon programme featured a series of hands-on workshops, including Integration of AI in Digital Pedagogy by Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Tazli Azizan, Practical Workplace Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment by Wardatul Zahrah from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Stress Less, Live More! by AC-ACE Creative Training Services.

Centre for Lifelong Learning is pleased to announce the advertisement of academic positions – To apply visit the UBD website https://ubd.edu.bn/job/academic-positions-at-centre-for-lifelong-learning-2

UNIVERSITI BRUNEI DARUSSALAM 

ADVERTISEMENT OF VACANT POSTS 

Completed application forms together with copies of academic certificates and comprehensive curriculum vitae with the names and addresses of three referees should be submit through online form as follows:   

Online form – https://forms.gle/3WmiGGEhmXJu9B7x7  

All application forms must reach us by 28 February 2026. 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.  

For enquiries on the advertisement, please email office.recruit@ubd.edu.bn.

CENTRE FOR LIFELONG LEARNING (C3L)
Faculty / Code	Position / Area
[UBD/C3L/001]	Educational Technology (Generative AI & Online Learning)
[UBD/C3L/002]	Adult & Lifelong Education (Competency-Based Education and Recognition of Prior Learning)
[UBD/C3L/003]	Workforce & Professional Education (Industry-Based Learning)
[UBD/C3L/004]	Digital Learning Innovation (Digital Credentials & EdTech Systems)

From 7th to 8th February 2026 – 9am – 5pm, C3L will participate in the 11th Higher Education Expo at Bridex, Jerudong. Members of the public may visit the UBD booth to learn more about the UniBridge programme and the introduction of the GenBestari programme starting in September.

UBD will also host the upcoming UBD Open Day from 9th to 10th February 2026 – 9th February – 2PM-9PM and 10th February – 10:30am-9:00pm at Chancellor Hall UBD. The Open Day will feature C3L amongst other faculties and departments.

On Friday 30th January from 9 am – 12 pm and 2.30pm- 4.30pm, Centre for Lifelong Learning held a workshop on developing micro-credentials to Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) and Occupational Health professionals. The session featured developing micro-credential courses on OpenLearning, where educators are shown how to develop their own courses online. The session was facilitated by Deputy Director – Dr Anni @ Nik Ani Afiqah binti Hj Md Tuah

On Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th January 2026, Centre for Lifelong Learning held a workshop on developing micro-credentials to UBD Staff and UBD Healthy University Working Group. The session featured developing micro-credential courses on OpenLearning, where educators are shown how to develop their own courses online. The objectives of the training are to build foundational skills in designing and developing micro-credentials aligned with Healthy University initiatives using OpenLearning and AI tools.

The session was facilitated by Director AP Dr Jose Hernandez Santos and Deputy Director – Dr Anni @ Nik Ani Afiqah binti Hj Md Tuah