Have you ever wondered what it takes to launch hundreds of future leaders into their academic journey? At Universiti Teknologi Brunei, the answer lies in a carefully orchestrated welcome that sets the tone for years of growth and discovery ahead.
UTB Vice Chancellor Welcomes New Intake of the Academic Year 2025/2026
Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) recently hosted its annual Vice-Chancellor’s Address, marking a significant milestone for approximately 641 new students entering the 2025/2026 academic year. Meanwhile, the Multi-Purpose Hall in Phase 3 buzzed with anticipation as these incoming scholars prepared to embark on their higher education journey.
A Ceremonial Start Rooted in Tradition
The ceremony opened with profound cultural and spiritual elements that reflect UTB’s values. Yang Mulia Awang Muhammad Nur Eyman bin Mohammad Saifulrizal, a second-year Mechanical Engineering student, led the gathering with the recitation of Selawat Tafrijiyyah. Subsequently, Yang Mulia Dayang Azimatul Atiqah binti Januddin, pursuing Chemical Engineering, beautifully recited verses from Al-Qur’an, while Yang Mulia Dayang Nur Syahirah Najihah binti Mahmood from the Food Science and Human Nutrition programme provided the translation.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Inspiring Message
Yang Mulia Datin Paduka Professor Dr. Dayang Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, UTB’s Vice-Chancellor, delivered a compelling address that went far beyond typical welcome remarks. She challenged the new students to view obstacles as opportunities, emphasising how UTB’s rising international rankings reflect the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
“Success is not about avoiding failure; it’s about pushing through it. You are not alone in this journey. Always remember that your success contributes to the strength of our nation.”
Her words resonated throughout the hall as she outlined UTB’s mission to develop future-ready graduates through community engagement and cutting-edge research. Furthermore, she encouraged students to actively participate in campus life while cultivating essential values of patriotism, unity, and community service.
The Solemn Oath and Official Commencement
Following the inspirational address, the 641 new students took their formal oath in the presence of university principal officers, dedicated lecturers, and administrative staff. This pivotal moment marked their official entry into the UTB community. As a result, the ceremony concluded with a multimedia presentation and the recitation of Doa Selamat.
UTB Orientation Week: Building Connections and Confidence
The Vice-Chancellor’s address seamlessly transitions into UTB Orientation Week 2025, running from 14 to 19 July 2025. The Student Affairs Office and Student Representative Council of UTB (MPPUTB) have collaborated to design comprehensive programming that addresses both academic and social adaptation needs.
Throughout this intensive week, students participate in essential briefing sessions led by various academic and administrative departments. Additionally, they meet representatives from their respective Schools and Faculty, ensuring they understand their academic pathways. The programme also features motivational talks and counselling sessions delivered by carefully selected speakers who provide guidance on university success strategies.
Campus tours and volunteering opportunities round out the experience, giving students hands-on familiarity with their new environment. For example, Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) booths were strategically positioned across campus prior to Orientation Week, showcasing the diverse range of clubs, organisations, and activities available to students.
Setting the Foundation for Academic Excellence
This comprehensive welcome approach reflects UTB’s understanding that successful university integration requires more than just academic preparation. By combining traditional elements with practical orientation activities, the university ensures that each of the 641 new students feels supported and connected from day one.
The thoughtful blend of ceremonial tradition, inspirational leadership, and practical guidance exemplifies how leading educational institutions can create meaningful transitions for their students. As these new Bruneians begin their academic journeys, they carry with them not just knowledge and skills, but also a deep sense of purpose and community responsibility that will serve them—and their nation—for years to come. For more insights on university orientation best practices, institutions worldwide continue to evolve their approaches to student integration.
