“The 2023 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report serves as an essential tool in helping us understand how technology is currently being used in education across Southeast Asia, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges we still face,” stated Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin.
Her remarks came as she inaugurated SEAMEO VOCTECH’s Sharing Session on Wednesday, held in conjunction with the launch of the 2023 GEM Report for Southeast Asia.
Dr Shamsiah emphasised the significance of data-driven decision-making in shaping the future of education.
“For us in Brunei Darussalam, this report serves as a vital guide in strengthening our policies and programmes, especially as we strive to align our strategies with the broader goals of the Southeast Asian region,” she added.
The report, produced by UNESCO in collaboration with SEAMEO, is titled “Technology in Education: A Tool on Whose Terms?” and provides an analysis of the use of technology in education across 11 Southeast Asian countries, including Brunei Darussalam.
Following the launch, the Sharing Session centred on “Inclusive TVET for a Green and Digital Future,” exploring how Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems can integrate sustainability and inclusivity to meet the needs of rapidly changing industries.
Industry experts and Governing Board Members from GIZ RECOTWIN, Labtech International, CAITO, and NISAI shared insights on curriculum development, teacher training, and aligning TVET with evolving industry demands.
SEAMEO VOCTECH Centre Director Haji Norjemee bin Jenek expressed hopes that the session would provide a platform for discussing the GEM Report’s findings and recommendations within a regional context.
He also highlighted the release of the report’s summary in Bahasa Melayu, aimed at making its insights more accessible to local stakeholders.
The event underscored the importance of preparing a workforce equipped with future-ready skills to support sustainable economic growth and social inclusivity.
Attendees engaged in networking and collaboration opportunities, fostering professional development across Southeast Asia. The session attracted stakeholders from the ASEAN region and beyond.
The 35th SEAMEO VOCTECH Governing Board Meeting will continue on Thursday, featuring a sightseeing tour of Bandar Seri Begawan and a visit to the Institute of Brunei Technical Education’s School of Aviation and Hospitality, culminating in a bowling tournament designed to promote camaraderie and work-life balance.
