Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) hosted the engaging “Journey Beyond Borders: Unveiling ERASMUS+ Experiences” on 5th December 2024.
Organised by the Office of the Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Sustainability) in collaboration with the Higher Education Department, Ministry of Education, the event highlighted the transformative impact of the ERASMUS+ international mobility programme. It attracted around 50 attendees, including UBD staff, students, officers from the Ministry of Education, and members of the public.
In his welcoming remarks, Dr Haji Abdul Hanif Dato Paduka Haji Mahadi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Sustainability) emphasised that programmes like ERASMUS+ offer invaluable opportunities for students and staff to engage with diverse cultures and educational systems, fostering a globally minded academic community.
The event featured several speakers who shared their firsthand experiences with ERASMUS+. Dr Eleni Zagana, Associate Professor at the University of Patras, delivered a detailed presentation on the programme, reflecting on her experiences and the nine-year collaboration between the University of Patras and UBD through the ERASMUS+ mobility programme.
Geology students (alumni of Erasmus+ 2018 & 2023) from the Faculty of Science (FOS), Pg Khairunnisa Nazirah Pg Dr Karim, Siti Nuradlina Misli, and Nurul Azrina Boey, shared how the ERASMUS+ programme transformed their academic journeys. They also discussed the cultural exchange and personal growth they experienced during their time abroad.
A key highlight of the event was a virtual presentation by Ms Alkmini Tzoumaka, the first ERASMUS+ exchange student to Brunei, joining the session from Greece. She shared her perspective on the reciprocal nature of the ERASMUS+ programme, praising Brunei’s commitment to nature conservation and the supportive environment at UBD, which allowed her to grow academically, professionally, and personally.
Dr Eleni Zagana’s second presentation focused on the collaborative research conducted by her and UBD geology students in Greece. Dr Shi Siong Tang, Aux ENFP, Senior Education Officer at the Higher Education Department, Ministry of Education, highlighted the role of ERASMUS+ National Focal Points in Brunei and discussed other ERASMUS+ opportunities available.
At the end of the event, Professor Basilios Tsikouras, Director of Research at UBD commended the ERASMUS+ programme for its role in building bridges between nations and inspiring students. Reflecting on the event’s significance, he remarked: “We hope that by sharing firsthand insights from peers and researchers about the transformative experiences gained through study abroad opportunities, this event will enhance cultural exchange and encourage Bruneian students to pursue global learning, ultimately contributing to their personal and professional development.”
The event also included an informal Q&A session and a networking opportunity, fostering connections and discussions on potential collaborations.
The success of the talk series underscores UBD’s dedication to promoting global academic collaboration, cultural exchange, and international mobility. This initiative aligns with Brunei’s Vision 2035, reinforcing UBD’s role in cultivating a globally connected academic community.
For more information on ERASMUS+, please contact basilios.tsikouras@ubd.edu.bn or shisiong.tang@moe.gov.bn.