Minister of Education Brunei Darussalam, Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Md Salleh, inaugurated the 68th Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Educational Innovation and Technology (SEAMEO INNOTECH) Governing Board Meeting (GBM) on Wednesday.
The three-day meeting, organised by the Ministry of Education Brunei Darussalam, is taking place from October 22 to October 24, 2024, at the Rizqun International Hotel.
The event began with welcoming remarks from SEAMEO INNOTECH Director Dr Leonor Magtolis Briones, delivered by Deputy Director Ms Kochakorn Khattapan Acidre as her representative.
In her speech, Briones emphasised the meeting as a unified gathering of 11 nations, all committed to providing transformative learning experiences for learners across the region.
The GBM offers a critical platform for discussing operational matters, key initiatives, and strategies to shape the future direction of SEAMEO INNOTECH. A major highlight was the presentation of the organisation’s 11th Five-Year Development Plan, which adopts a Futures Thinking approach.
Briones noted, “As we face the uncertainties of tomorrow, it is crucial to employ innovative thinking to ensure SEAMEO INNOTECH remains future-ready and responsive to the evolving educational landscape.”
She also outlined plans for the 16th International Conference themed ‘Fostering the I in AI: A Multi-Sectoral Synergy for Human-Centred Education’.
This event aims to explore how Artificial Intelligence can be leveraged to enhance education while prioritising human well-being. Additionally, the SEAMEO INNOTECH Youth Development Strategy was highlighted as a key initiative to equip young people with skills for the digital age and workforce readiness.
“I trust today’s deliberations will yield productive and impactful outcomes for the Centre and the region.
“As we embark on these important discussions, let us continue to work hand-in-hand to strengthen our partnerships, explore new possibilities, and reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing education across Southeast Asia,” Briones added.
Following her speech, Mr Emiljohn Sentillas, Policy and Planning Specialist at SEAMEO Secretariat, delivered opening remarks.
He noted that the GBM serves as a “valuable space for reflection on achievements, discussion of ongoing programme progress, and exploration of future initiatives.”
He also emphasised the importance of building connections between SEAMEO Centres and Ministries of Education to ensure alignment with the evolving needs and priorities of the region.
“We find ourselves in the midst of a shifting educational, scientific, and cultural landscape. These changes, driven by technological advancements, globalisation, and emerging challenges, require us to reimagine traditional approaches and explore innovative solutions for our students, teachers, and communities across Southeast Asia,” he said.
Sentillas underscored that SEAMEO must remain adaptable and resilient, anticipating future trends to maintain the relevance and impact of its programmes. The discussions at the GBM are expected to guide strategic direction for the years to come.
The SEAMEO Secretariat provided updates on significant outcomes from the 2023/2024 fiscal year, including key agreements from the Centre Directors Meeting 2023 and resolutions for the non-SEAMEC year 2024.
These insights offered a comprehensive view of current efforts and future plans, with a commitment to strengthening collaboration among SEAMEO Centres to address emerging challenges and opportunities.
Sentillas acknowledged SEAMEO INNOTECH’s significant role in advancing shared goals, particularly highlighting its contributions to the 2023 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report on Technology in Education in Southeast Asia.
He praised the centre’s role in developing the thematic background paper, which supported the report’s success.
“As we move forward, let us carry these successes into the future. The challenges we face are significant, but so are the opportunities. By working together, sharing knowledge, and remaining dedicated to our mission, we can continue making meaningful strides in improving education, science, and culture across Southeast Asia,” he stated.
The GBM serves as a platform for generating new ideas and fostering stronger collaborations among member countries.
This year’s discussions focus on SEAMEO INNOTECH’s future direction, including achievement reports, updates on educational programmes, and progress in areas such as research, capacity development, and human resources.
With strong support from SEAMEO member countries, the meeting is expected to help shape strategic educational initiatives aimed at creating innovative and inclusive learning environments across the region.
The discussions and outcomes of this event are set to play a pivotal role in guiding regional cooperation and educational innovation for Southeast Asia’s future.
The meeting was co-organised by the Department of Educators Management, Ministry of Education Brunei Darussalam, and SEAMEO INNOTECH, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing the region’s educational landscape.
