KUCHING: Borneo Post International Education Fair (BPIEF 2011) received many positive reviews from visitors since its launch last Saturday.
Many students said the buzz generated by BPIEF began in the middle of school term last year as they were already making plans to visit the fair.
With the tag line ‘Your Next Step Begins Here’, they said they were very impressed with the large number of exhibitors at the event.
Held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), the venue was filled over 6,000 curious and enthusiastic school leavers, families and educators during its two-day fair.
Some, like Angelianna Telun Lihan, came all the way from Miri last Friday just to attend the fair.
“I flew in from Miri just to attend this fair. I came to know about it through the papers. I’m so happy to be here to see the options that are available,” said the former student from SMK Pujut.
The arts stream student said she was very interested in studying business, adding that she was impressed with the layout of the fair and assistance by the exhibitors.
Electrical Engineering diploma student Lukas Johnny who also came from Miri said he was excited to be at the fair.
“There is so much valuable information here to help youths like myself decide on our future career path,” said the 19-year-old.
He added that the fair has also been a family affair. He said: “Their input and suggestion will help me make the right choice.”
Besides students, the fair was also a hit with working adults who are looking for knowledge enhancement training and programmes.
Norhanie Syahfira, 19, was accompanied by her aunty who was looking for short training courses on skill enhancement.
“Many adults are very keen to learn new skills through short courses such as baking and cooking courses. These skills can be used to provide additional income,” said Norhanie’s aunt who preferred to remain anonymous.
She added that she attended the fair to introduce her niece to other education options besides other popular career paths.
“I’m also here to show Norhanie that there are other career options besides the ones people always mention such as engineer, doctors, accountants and lawyers. I want to expose her to a large variety of education choices,” she said.