SEAMEO Voctech has completed its Regional Training programme ‘Measuring the Readiness of Education Institutions for Industry 4.0 using the SMART Education Readiness Index (SERI) Framework’.
High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Luke Arnold, present at the closing ceremony, emphasised the importance of measuring the preparedness of educational institutions for the Industrial Revolution 4.0.
He said, “Without assessing readiness, it is difficult to determine if we are taking the right steps or if we are doing anything effectively.”
The ambassador highlighting the need to focus on measuring the right aspects, noted, “Not everything that counts can be quantified. The SMART Education Readiness Index (SERI) should foster the discussions needed to adequately prepare for the significant changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution 4.0.” He added that vocational educators may increasingly shift from instructors to facilitators of learning.
SEAMEO Voctech Centre Director Haji Norjemee bin Jenek along with deputy directors, management, officers, and programme participants attended.
Eighteen participants from 11 SEAMEO member countries received certificates after a comprehensive training programme, which included a three-day online workshop from August 12-14 and a five-day on-site session at the SEAMEO Voctech Regional Centre in Brunei from August 19-23.
This training aligns with SEAMEO Voctech’s seventh Five-Year Development Plan, which focuses on ‘Inclusive TVET for A Green and Digital Future’. Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Chin Wei Keh, contributed as a guest facilitator during the online sessions, offering insights into applying the SERI framework in the Sultanate.
By the end of the programme, participants had gained expertise in developing and applying an assessment matrix to evaluate the readiness of TVET institutions for Industry 4.0 at both national and institutional levels.
This training equips them with the skills to implement the SERI framework within their institutions and countries, reinforcing SEAMEO Voctech’s commitment to advancing education and readiness for Industry 4.0 across the region. – Azlan Othman
