Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali or UNISSA yesterday held a launching ceremony for its military cadet's establishment.

It is the second time that the military cadet has been established for a higher education institution. They are made up of male and female platoons, consisting of undergraduates.

The event's guest of honour was Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education (Higher Education) Hj Mohd Daud Hj Mahmud. Also present at the ceremony was Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah.

The Assistant Rector of UNISSA, Pg Anak Dr Hj Amiruddin Alam Shah Pg Anak Hj Ismail, delivered the welcoming speech.

In his speech, Hj Mohd Daud Hj Mahmud stated that it is important for all cadets to abide by the disciplines and rules set and drawn by both the Ministry of Education and UNISSA.

This establishment was one of the courses under the university's co-curriculum in line with the ministry's hopes and aspirations to produce well-rounded role models who possess leadership qualities and strong confidence.

The involvement of UNISSA's undergraduates also highlights the focus on character-building, which is in line with the 21st Century National Education system or SPN 21.

Such activities aim, among others, to provide opportunities for the students to enrol in certain skills over the long term, while at the same time encouraging a healthy lifestyle long after graduation

Altogether, there are 40 undergraduates from the university making up the team of military cadets. In addition, there are four more supervising teachers.

Yesterday's launch was also witnessed by ASMDB Commanding Officers, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence and other representatives from the ministry, as well as Directors from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Defence. - Borneo Bulletin (23rd Apr 2009)