LCB, UK’s Chester plan courses on cyber-security, games development

LAKSAMANA College of Business (LCB) and University of Chester in the UK are exploring the possibility of offering cyber security and games development courses as both these areas have spurred a lot of interest among Bruneians.

This was shared by Dr Chris Haslam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Garfield Southall, Associate Dean, Faculty of Science and Engineering, both from University of Chester, yesterday prior to the college’s graduation ceremony.

The gaming industry has boomed in recent years, particularly due to the increasing popularity of interactive games across multiple platforms including consoles, mobile devices and social networking sites, explained Southall.

“These are all key growth areas in the computing industry, and there is a demand for qualified graduates to fill the technical development roles in the local creative industry,” he added.

He went on to comment on cyber-security which has shown frightening statistics on the “very high” level of attacks, or cybercrimes, throughout the world. “The security of the Internet and of the data stored there by individuals and organisations is of paramount importance to all nations. Therefore, the UK Government (including Brunei) has stressed the importance of increasing the number of workforce who understand this threat and can act accordingly.”

Both the partnering education institutions (LCB and University of Chester) are keen to develop more courses that are suited to the Brunei market as well as the surrounding region in order for students to have a rounded global view.

One such course currently in talks is a course related to the oil and gas sector, which is the backbone of the Sultanate’s economy.

“The younger generation faces all sorts of challenges in the current dynamic world we live in and it is imperative that Laksamana College of Business and University of Chester work hand-in-hand to equip students to survive in this challenging world,” noted Dr Chris Haslam.

LCB currently has more than a thousand active students. Sivarajah Subramaniam, its Chief Operating Officer (COO), said there is high demand from both parents and students as the courses offered here are of “high quality British degree” standard. Students do not need to go overseas to study which in turn will help develop capabilities of the country.

LCB and University of Chester created the partnership more than two years ago aiming to provide “the best learning experience” as well as to strengthen the general links between the UK and Brunei.

The visiting UK academics also met with students of LCB, who took the opportunity to ask questions about the University of Chester.

Every year, a large number of LCB students pursue their studies in the UK after completing their studies at LCB.