By Nurdiyanah R. –
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, OCT 23 – The role of technology in education cannot be disputed. It has revolutionized the way we teach and learn, closing the gap in access to knowledge and improving the quality of education around the world.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology plays an increasingly important role in preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
The matter was emphasized by the Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin while delivering a speech as guest of honor at the Launching Ceremony of the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEM) Year 2023 for Southeast Asia and the Sharing Session About Inclusive TVET for a Green and Digital Future which took place at Dewan Seri Kerna of the SEAMEO VOCTECH Regional Center, this morning.
However, he stressed, with technology having great potential to transform education, we must realize that the benefits do not come automatically.
Therefore, we must be thoughtful in how we integrate technology into the classroom by ensuring that it meets the needs of students and educators. This is in line with what was suggested in the launch of the GEM report entitled Technology in Education: A Tool on Whose Terms? the said.
Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati also emphasized that it is our duty, as educators, policy makers and leaders, to ensure that our young generation are not technology users but also innovators.
We must prepare our generation to be technologically literate, equipping them with the digital skills and critical thinking abilities that will enable them to thrive.
“With this in mind and as part of Cross Cutting Enablers in the Brunei Darussalam Ministry of Education’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027 that we are committed to incorporating innovative technology infrastructure through digital transformation in education that enhances the learning experience, this fosters better engagement and understanding among students,” he said.
In order to prepare the next generation towards a digital future, he said, our education system must be able to go beyond the introduction of digital tools in the classroom.
But in this matter, we need to foster digital literacy at every level of education, from early childhood to higher education and technical and vocational training. Students must learn how to use technology not only for passive use but for active problem solving, creativity and collaboration.
“At the same time, we must focus on preparing our teachers and educators for this digital shift. Their role is very important in guiding students on how to use technology effectively and responsibly. Teacher professional development programs that incorporate digital competencies will be key to ensuring educators are equipped to handle new teaching methods and digital learning environments,” he added.
He also stated that to continue efforts to empower the importance of technology in education, the 2023 GEM Report is a timely and invaluable resource. The report serves as an important tool in helping them understand how technology is being used in education across Southeast Asia, highlighting the progress made and the challenges that remain.
The findings of the report, he added, have offered them a clearer understanding of the current position in integrating IT into education and it points towards areas where efforts must be focused to improve.
“For us in Brunei Darussalam, this report is an important guide in strengthening our policies and programs, especially as we strive to align our strategy with broader goals in the Southeast Asian region,” he said.