In the ever-evolving landscape of digital transformation within the TVET sector, the UNEVOC Network Coaction Initiative 2023, spearheaded by the UNEVOC Centre at Shenzhen Polytechnic University (SZPU), has made a beacon of innovation and collaboration. The inaugural webinar, themed 'Digital Transformation Theory and Methodologies,' took place on September 7, 2023, initiating the four webinars series. Webinar 2, focused on 'Digital Transformation and Development of TVET Programmes and Curricula,' continued the momentum on September 28, 2023. Shifting the focus to 'Digital Education Technologies, Digital Pedagogies, and OERs,' Webinar 3 occurred on October 12, 2023.
As the final event, Webinar 4, themed 'Sharing of Promising Practices and Wrap-up,' anticipations were high. This webinar, held on November 9, 2023, promises to be a culmination of shared experiences and successful practices. With representatives from National Skills University Islamabad(NSU) of Pakistan, Preah Kossomak Polytechnic Institute (PPI) of Cambodia, Shenzhen Polytechnic University (SZPU) of China, Temasek Polytechnic (TP) of Singapore, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) of Malaysia, and Zhejiang Technical Institute of Economics (ZJTIE) of China, the collective wisdom and accomplishments were showcased, contributing to the overarching goal of advancing digital transformation in the global TVET landscape.
(Group photo of webinar participants)
In the opening session, the Learning Sharing session of Webinar 4 seamlessly continued the collaborative spirit established in earlier sessions. In this session, Ms. Yuan Tianqi, representing ZJTIE, reflected on key insights from ZJTIE's group discussions in last webinar, highlighting challenges and successes in digital transformation.
The central session of the webinar unfolded with the presentations of six promising practices. Dr. Prof. Saud Alta, Chairperson of the Information Engineering Technology Department at NSU, firstly presented insights on the theme of ‘Digital Transformation in Education at NSU Pakistan: Aligned with TVET Network.’ His comprehensive presentation covered a spectrum of sub-topics, including an overview of the university, the role of TVET Network, the array of program and skill-based certificates offered, digital transformation strategies and platforms at NSU, the NSU Advisory Council, challenges faced, proposed solutions, and the envisioned future of digital transformation both at NSU and within the broader TVET network. Dr. Prof. Saud Alta's expertise illuminated the comprehensive landscape of digital transformation in the educational realm, showcasing the alignment of NSU's initiatives with the broader TVET objectives. This sharing provided valuable insights into the specific strategies implemented at NSU.
(Dr. Prof. Saud Alta, Chairperson of Information Engineering TechnologyDepartment, NSU)
Mr. CHEA Sokchenda, representing PPI, took the stage as the second speaker. He shared a comprehensive presentation on the 'TVET Management Information System of PPI.' Mr. CHEA Sokchenda's presentation provided a detailed exploration of the historical context, mission, and organizational structure of PPI. Additionally, he delved into the diverse training courses offered, the institute's infrastructure, and the pivotal role of public-private partnerships. The focal point of his talk was the TVET Management Information System (TVET MIS), where he elucidated its objectives, practice description, outcomes, impact, and shared valuable insights, key takeaways, and considerations for transferability. This sharing deepened our understanding of the initiatives at PPI.
(Mr. CHEA Sokchenda from PPI, Cambodia)
As the third presenter, Ms. ZHONG Zhuoya, Programme Officer at the UNEVOC Centre, SZPU, brought forth a profound exploration into "SZPU Solution to Digital Transformation of TVET." Her presentation delved into the backdrop of TVET digital transformation, exploring the impact of a booming digital economy and evolving labor markets. She then outlined the solutions initiated by SZPU, including the institution's digital transformation framework, objectives, and overarching strategy. Furthermore, Ms. ZHONG detailed SZPU's promising practices in digital transformation, addressing various facets such as skills development, governance, public-private partnership, teacher competences, pedagogical reform, student literacy, social engagement, innovation, global outreach, and digital infrastructure enhancement. Her presentation showcased the commitment of SZPU to advancing TVET digital transformation but also contributed valuable insights to the collective knowledge shared within the UNEVOC Network Coaction Initiative.
(Ms. ZHONG Zhuoya, Programme Officer at the UNEVOC Centre, SZPU, China)
Mr. BOEY Chee Kin, the Assistant Director (Digitalisation & Innovation) at the Learning Academy, Temasek Polytechnic (TP), made a presentation themed "Preparing Students for the Future of Work." In a session that unfolded with rich insights and promising practices, he delved into the unfolding landscape of the future of work. His presentation dissected the reality of this evolving paradigm and, more importantly, outlined strategies to empower students to ACE the challenges ahead. Autonomy, Connections, and Expertise made 3 pillars of this strategic approach, providing students with the tools not just to navigate but to thrive in the future professional landscape. His presentation not only illuminated the challenges and opportunities on the horizon but also contributed to the overarching goal of preparing students for a future where adaptability and skill mastery are paramount.
(Mr. BOEY Chee Kin, Assistant Director at the Learning Academy, TP, Singapore)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. D‘oria Islamiah Rosli, the fifth presenter in this session, Deputy Director of Digital Media Innovation at UTHM, revealed the university's commitment to TVET digital transformation. UTHM prioritizes staying abreast of digital trends, focusing on four ICT adoption stages. The presentation delved into challenges, motivations for quality education, and the post-pandemic shift to hybrid learning. She showcased emerging digital academic programs, detailed Bachelor offerings, MOOCs, micro-credentials, and impactful educational practices, presenting a holistic strategy. The presentation encapsulates UTHM's dedication to nurturing a digitally skilled generation and advancing TVET education, aligning with global progress and fostering innovation in the digital education era.
(Dr. D‘oria Islamiah Rosli, Deputy Director of Digital Media Innovation at UTHM, Malaysia)
As the last presenter in this session, Mr. Wu Weiqiang, Deputy Director of Library & Information Center at ZJTIE, China, shared valuable insights on "Data-Driven Construction of Digital Infrastructure for TVET Campus." Exploring crucial aspects such as planning, leadership, and promotion mechanisms, his presentation outlined the construction of digital infrastructure, digital application systems, and data resource systems. This comprehensive overview provided key perspectives on utilizing data-driven approaches to shape the digital landscape of TVET campuses, offering valuable guidance for effective planning and implementation in the realm of TVET.
(Mr. Wu Weiqiang, Deputy Director of the Library & Information Center at ZJTIE, China)
In the final wrap-up session encompassing the entire Coaction series of four webinars, Dr. Olivier Pieume, Chief of the Technical Cooperation Unit and Team Leader for the Network Secretariat at UNESCO-UNEVOC International Centre for TVET, expressed profound appreciation for the collaborative endeavors. He expressed optimism for continued cooperation and growth, looking forward to witnessing increased collaboration among participants. Dr. Pieume highlighted the importance of collective contributions towards global TVET digital transformation, envisioning a future where shared efforts lead to significant advancements in the field. The Coaction initiative, with its wealth of insights and shared commitment, lays the groundwork for ongoing collaboration and meaningful contributions to the global TVET landscape.
(Dr. Olivier Pieume, Team Leader for the Network Secretariat at UNESCO-UNEVOC)
