(Bandar Seri Begawan, 17th) His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei stated at the 15th graduation ceremony of Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (KUPU SB) yesterday that, as a higher-learning institution specializing in Islamic education, the university plays a crucial role in nurturing qualified religious educators. However, the measurement of educational achievement lies not just in academic performance, but also in whether teachers can cultivate students' noble character and faith values based on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
His Majesty noted that he observes and commends the university's efforts in formulating its 2025–2029 strategic plan. This plan not only emphasizes academic excellence, but also stresses skill development and moral formation, while updating course structures and content to meet the needs of the times and society.
The Sultan extended congratulations to all graduates, affirming their academic accomplishments at the Islamic University, and expressed deep gratitude for the contributions and support from parents, guardians, and lecturers.
In his speech, His Majesty stressed that with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the Islamic University should, like other higher education institutions, make good use of technology to enhance teaching and research capabilities, ensuring that students and faculty remain competitive in mainstream fields.
"Technology is a platform with great potential to improve teaching methods, which is consistent with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote Islamic values based on the teachings of the Prophet. But I remind everyone that the use of technology must be ethical, and must not compromise values, etiquette, and human ethics."
His Majesty emphasized that no matter how advanced technology becomes, it cannot replace the key and sacred role of teachers in education. The guidance and exemplary role of teachers remain the irreplaceable core of students’ learning processes.
Furthermore, His Majesty called on the Islamic University and the wider Islamic education community to firmly uphold orthodox faith, resist heretical ideologies that contradict the Prophet’s teachings, and guard against any ideological infiltration that may weaken Islamic beliefs.
His Majesty also extended particular gratitude to the University Council, university management, lecturers, and all faculty members, and congratulated all graduates’ parents and guardians for jointly witnessing the students’ honor and success.