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ASEAN diplomats visit UNESCO-ICHEI, exploring partnerships in digital transformation for higher education

On October 24, 2024, a delegation from the ASEAN-China Center (ACC), alongside diplomats from ASEAN embassies in China, visited the International Centre for Higher Education Innovation under the auspices of UNESCO(UNESCO-ICHEI)and the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen. This visit facilitated an exchange of ideas between ASEAN diplomats and UNESCO-ICHEI, as they explored potential collaborations in digital transformation for higher education.

During the visit, the ASEAN diplomats commended UNESCO-ICHEI’s smart classroom and International Institute of Online Education (IIOE) platform, recognizing their potential to empower educators and support collaborative research through digital advancements. They expressed enthusiasm for establishing future partnerships that could leverage digital tools to drive educational innovations.

Bi Xiaohan, Deputy Director of UNESCO-ICHEI, elaborated on the organization’s existing partnerships with universities across the ASEAN region, including institutions in Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. According to Ms. Bi, these collaborations have led to tangible outcomes, such as the establishment of "smart classrooms" — advanced spaces equipped to integrate artificial intelligence and new technologies into teaching and learning practices.

Highlighting one of these partnerships, Bi noted that a collaboration with the Indonesia Cyber Education Institute (ICE-I), backed by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, has led to a national capacity-building program involving eight to ten prominent Indonesian universities. This program aims to enhance teaching skills and digital competencies among local educators.

Yudil Chatim, the Education and Cultural Affairs Attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in China, emphasized Indonesia’s interest in furthering such initiatives, citing the vast network of 4,500 universities in Indonesia as a significant opportunity for impactful partnerships. Chatim underscored the need for collaboration not only with educational institutions like UNESCO-ICHEI but also with industry players, including investors from China, particularly Guangdong Province, who are already contributing to Indonesia’s economic landscape. This model of "U-to-UB" (university-to-university and business) cooperation, he noted, aligns with ASEAN’s goal for sustainable educational and economic growth.

ASEAN diplomats concluded the visit with optimism, reaffirming their eagerness to expand cooperation with UNESCO-ICHEI to advance digital transformation in higher education across Southeast Asia.

Reporter: Nick

Video: Pan Jiajun

Photo: Pan Jiajun

Editor: Nan, Will, James


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