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**For lifelong learning graduates, personal growth and evolution warrant perseverance.** Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L) started in 2016. However, programmes for the C3L began the following year, providing value by focusing attention on the contribution of lifelong learning to the wider student learning experience. Driven by the proposition of ‘Transforming Teaching, Inspiring Lifelong Learning’, the C3L is aimed to continue professional development for UBD alumni as well as non-alumni, especially those interested in a second career. The centre seeks to initiate continuing education programmes that are non-formal in nature for the public who would like to upgrade themselves, either in terms of skills upgrading or for self-enrichment. Utilising blended learning approach, courses under the C3L are delivered both online through lectures, videos and discussion forums and offline through classes and tutorials. There are seven areas covered under the centre namely digital technology, business management, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, creative industries, Islam and society and government. During the recent 35th UBD Convocation Ceremony, the first batch of lifelong learning students undertaking the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Digital Economy were among the thousands of graduates receiving their certificates. Some of the graduates shared their lifelong learning journey with the *Bulletin* following their convocation day. Farah Nurimanina binti Md Jaya’s learning journey was a bit unique. Unlike her peers, Farah began her bachelors in digital economy after completing her ‘A’ Levels, while she was still unemployed. “I was excited about diving into the digital world, and this programme seemed like the perfect fit to kickstart my career. Plus, the potential for growth and new horizons really motivated me to jump right in,” she said. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/pS1Alb7_FYm1k0srn58Hv-iYhU9FOg-QKRcbsy41FQM.jpeg) Farah Nurimanina binti Md Jaya. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD Describing her challenges, the 26-year-old admitted that she felt intimidated, especially being one of the few students at the centre without working experience. She felt the pressure to catch up with her more experienced peers, and as a result, Farah had to work twice as hard to achieve success. “However, the unwavering support of my family, friends, and fellow course mates played a huge role in keeping me going,” she said. Fortunately, the new lifelong graduate landed a job even before completing her degree. Nevertheless, Farah wholeheartedly believed that her new certificate will unlock even more opportunities. She also expressed her willingness to explore where these new possibilities may take her; be it to pursue further studies or to continue moving forward in her current career path. “Who knows? The goal is to keep growing and learning, wherever that path may lead. Big shout out to my family, especially my parents, for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Fellow course mates and lecturers have been awesome too!” Fellow C3L graduate Nurwatriah binti Haji Morni enrolled into the programme because of its flexible learning options and supportive environment. As a parent juggling work and family responsibilities, the C3L’s flexible class schedules and online learning resources was invaluable, especially after taking into consideration the centre’s reputation for providing high-quality education and personalised support. She found her journey in taking up a part-time degree to be quite an adventure, one that she is grateful for. Having to balance work, marriage and education required her dedication and sacrifice, but it was also an opportunity for personal and professional growth. “There were moments when I felt overwhelmed. And exhausted, especially when deadlines for assignments or exams approached. It often meant sacrificing personal time or social activities to ensure I had enough hours to focus on my studies. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/_PXZS8nz_z4osx_EK_Ao6-Wm8C0XpOuG-9cWwMWhVM7.jpeg) Nurwatriah binti Haji Morni. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD “This sometimes led to feelings of guilt, as I had to prioritise my education over spending quality time with my spouse and daughter,” she admitted. Maintaining open communication with her family was key for the 31-year-old and it also required a high level of discipline, perseverance and self-motivation to stay focused and meet the expectations of both areas in her life. Despite these challenges, she believes that the experience ultimately strengthened her time management skills, resilience and ability to prioritise effectively. It also highlighted the importance of having a supportive spouse, family and a strong support network to lean on during difficult times. “My ultimate goal is to upgrade my position and to take on more challenging roles within the digital economy field. I want to leverage my knowledge and skills to drive innovation and transformation in organisations.” It’s a sentiment shared by Farah Dibba binti Abu Kassim who initially pursued the Bachelor of Science in Digital Economy to secure a promotion and better job opportunities. “As I progressed on my learning journey, my focus shifted towards personal growth and self-improvement,” she said. The passion for learning became a driving force, pushing her to acquire new knowledge and skills and she is now hopeful to support Brunei Vision 2035, to ensure that the people of the country are educated, highly skilled and accomplished. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/rgRhpy--dYuZ2q8-57uSD-qZ5MFCjh1aTTnwkJIkvEg.jpeg) Farah Dibba binti Abu Kassim. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD Like a number of her peers, juggling between studies, work and family was one of her biggest struggles but seeing how her family was behind her every step of her learning journey, she was really grateful. “I realised that they too sacrificed a lot, especially my husband, parents and kids. I cannot afford to give up,” she said. “I wanted my kids to see that when you set your mind to it, you can achieve everything, Insya Allah.” Farrah is also motivated to continue learning and growing and hopes to set an example for her children, saying, “To show them that education isn’t just for personal benefit but also for contributing to the community and nation by being a role model that highlights the importance of education, as it can have a positive impact beyond ourselves.” – Lyna Mohamad

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