Kota kinabalu: The Sabah government has announced an allocation of over RM100 million for the Sabah State Government Scholarship (BKNS) this year, aiming to support existing students and provide new scholarships to an additional 2,182 students. The initiative, announced by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, is targeted primarily at students pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the total number of students benefiting from the BKNS sponsorship now stands at 13,389. This significant investment underscores the state government's commitment to ensuring that more children in Sabah have access to quality education. Chief Minister Hajiji emphasized that education development remains a top priority for the state, as it is crucial for producing a knowledgeable, skilled, and competitive workforce.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the state's focus on human capital development as a cornerstone for Sabah's progress. He noted the need for graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also highly skilled, competitive, and creative, to keep pace with current developments. Since 2021, the state government has introduced 14 education assistance programs aimed at providing various forms of support to students.

Among these initiatives are the one-off Higher Education Institution Registration Cash Assistance (BUDI), Special Examination Cash Assistance (BAKTI), Ihsan Computer Assistance (BAIK), Sabah Student Flight Ticket Assistance (GRS-SUBFLY), and State Higher Education Student Contribution (SENTOSA). These measures are designed to help students and their families cope with rising living costs and education expenses.

Hajiji expressed hope that students will continue to excel, especially in strategic fields that are expected to drive future development. These fields include the oil, gas, and energy sectors; Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET); and Artificial Intelligence (AI).