A cohort of 23 distinguished participants from local universities and institutions came together for an eye-opening two-day event from 27th to 28th November 2023, at the UBD Library. The event, called 3-D Training Approach: “Design, Develop, Deliver,” marked the end of the Information and Digital Literacy Programme—an effort carefully put together by UBD Library and SMU Libraries.
The inaugural session was graced by the esteemed presence of the Guest of Honour, Associate Professor Pg Dr. Mohd Iskandar bin Pg Hj Petra, UBD Acting Assistance Vice-Chancellor (Corporate and Administration). Following the opening, Haji Awang Muhammad Yussuf bin POKIDDP Haji Awang Musa, Acting Chief Librarian of UBD Library, delivered a compelling welcome address emphasizing the crucial role of digital skills in today’s dynamic information landscape. “Libraries have always been sanctuaries of knowledge, serving as gateways to information and learning. In today’s fast-paced world, where information is abundant and readily available at our fingertips, navigating these resources can be challenging for the library clients and librarians. The importance of being digitally literate cannot be overstated,” remarked Haji Awang Muhammad Yussuf.
The comprehensive two-day workshop, expertly curated by Mr. Rajendra Munoo and Ms. Li Zhenyan, facilitators from Learning and Engagement, SMU Libraries, addressed key aspects of developing impactful lesson content, enhancing confidence in workshop delivery, and creating strategies to bolster information literacy programmes.
Mr. Rajendra, during the appreciation dinner on the evening of November 28th, extended his sincere thanks and heartfelt gratitude to UBD Library, recognizing their vital role in the workshop’s success. Mr. Rajendra also conveyed his profound appreciation for the initiative taken by Awang Amirul Shahezal bin Haji Abdul Rahman the chairperson of the organizing committee. He commended Awang Amirul for approaching him with the idea of conducting a comprehensive workshop, shedding light on the importance of Information and Digital Literacy (IDL) for Brunei librarians.
Mr. Rajendra not only expressed appreciation for the initiative but also shared his perspective on the collaborative workshop. He said in his speech, “investing in staff, continuing their professional development, and upskilling them help to keep the library and information profession alive. It also enables us to provide value-added services as part of our digital transformation, strengthening our partnerships and collaborations on campus. Learning is continuous, and applying your knowledge in your own context aligns what you do with institutional goals to have a meaningful impact.” Mr. Rajendra highlighted the importance of ongoing learning and the practical application of knowledge in achieving significant outcomes for the library and information profession.
The workshop not only provided participants with valuable insights but also aimed to establish a benchmark for librarians as educators. “Given the chance to apply the acquired knowledge during the microteaching practice on the second day of the workshop, it would contribute to expanding and enhancing our teaching methods, consequently broadening the spectrum of library services,” noted Dk Nur Rabi’ah binti Pg Hj Abdul Rahman, a participant from UBD Library.
The evening unfolded with the Guest of Honour presenting certificates to facilitators, participants, and the organizing committee representative. This was followed by a lively photography session, capturing moments of shared learning and achievement. The festivities continued with a delightful dinner and further networking session among the participants.