THE FACULTY OF ENGINEERING UTB: LEADING THE WAY IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION

> THE FACULTY OF ENGINEERING UTB: LEADING THE WAY IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION

Since its establishment in 1986, the Faculty of Engineering at UTB has consistently produced high-caliber engineering graduates who have made substantial contributions across various professional engineering disciplines, significantly impacting the country's development. The faculty's commitment to research and innovation is showcased through comprehensive postgraduate programmes, offering Master’s and PhD degrees in various engineering disciplines.

The faculty comprises of four programmes areas- Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Petroleum and Chemical Engineering, offering a broad spectrum of engineering programmes at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.

Faculty’s Accreditation

Dr Tan Soon Jiann, Dean of Faculty of Engineering emphasises, “The accreditation of our engineering programmes will ensure that we continue to provide our students with a world-class education recognised nationally and internationally.”

Accreditation of engineering programmes are designed to high global standards, updated curricula reflecting industry trends, equipping students with practical skills, fostering industry relationships, and incorporating effective teaching and learning strategies. The accreditation process is a cornerstone of UTB’s commitment to excellence, solidifying its position as a leading institution in engineering education.

Practical Learning - Industry Relevant Skills

One of the hallmarks of UTB's engineering programmes is the emphasis on practical learning to ensure that students acquire industry-relevant skills. Dr Tan Soon Jiann explains that the accreditation of programmes ensures the curriculum is designed to inculcate practical skills. In addition to classroom-based learning, students are exposed to hands-on and practical sessions in the engineering laboratories on campus, supporting the delivery of industry-relevant skills.

“These skills are further developed through the various, real-world design and research projects that are included in all our undergraduate engineering programmes. Moreover, our undergraduate programmes also include a period of industrial placement in the local industry to provide the students with valuable workplace experience under the guidance of an industry mentor.” said Dr Tan Soon Jiann.

Industry Collaborations – Strategic Partnerships for Holistic Development

Dr. Tan Soon Jiann outlines the Faculty of Engineering's proactive approach to fostering collaboration with industries, significantly contributing to students' employability and hands-on learning experiences. The faculty has established longstanding and extensive links with several leading engineering organisations in Brunei Darussalam.

Practitioners from these organisations regularly support the delivery of professional knowledge to students through avenues such as student placements, site visits, industrial lectures, and industry projects. Beyond this, they provide scholarships, support student excellence awards, and actively participate in industry advisory boards and student project evaluations.

The collaborative spirit extends to the faculty's staff, who regularly provide research and consultancy services to the local industry, contributing to solving real-world problems. These links not only provide opportunities for students to work on real-world engineering challenges but also enhance graduates' employability, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the professional world.

UTB's Faculty of Engineering stands committed to nurturing academic excellence, fostering innovation, and producing graduates who not only excel in their technical capabilities but also emerge as leaders in their respective fields. The combination of a dynamic curriculum, stringent accreditation standards, emphasis on practical learning, and strategic industry collaborations positions UTB as a pioneer in engineering education within Brunei Darussalam and beyond.

More information about UTB Faculty of Engineering can be obtained at the Higher Education Expo 2024 taking place from 3-4 February, and during UTB’s Open Day 2024 from 6-7 February at the University’s campus.