In responding to challenges in this digital era, the SEAMEO Regional Open Learning Centre (SEAMOLEC), as the Centre for Open and Distance Learning (ODL), plays a role in developing various learning innovations in the Southeast Asian region. SEAMOLEC has developed various models of learning innovations. Through the use of technology in education, SEAMOLEC encourages universities to play a relevant and effective role. This aligns with one of the 7 education priorities set by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), namely, “Adopting the 21st Century Curriculum.”
This idea was well-received by Yogyakarta State University (UNY), as evidenced by the signing of a cooperation document between SEAMOLEC and UNY on Friday, November 10, 2023, at the UNY Hotel ballroom in Yogyakarta. Previously, UNY and SEAMOLEC had a fairly long history of various joint programmes, but it is only now that they have agreed to formalize their collaboration as official partners.
Present at the meeting were the Director and Deputy Director of Administration of SEAMOLEC, the Vice Rector of UNY, and representatives from the UNESCO Teacher Education Centre (TEC) in China.
In his welcome speech, UNY Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Siswantoyo stated, “Improving the quality of Human Resources (HR) has always been a priority for UNY in creating HR with better knowledge, skills, and competencies, capable of enhancing the efficiency and quality of education. By enhancing the capacity of UNY’s teaching staff, it is believed that high quality university graduates can be realized.”
SEAMOLEC and UNY also announced that this collaboration will be supported by UNESCO TEC, China, which is committed to implementing its programmes and innovations to enhance the quality of teaching staff at UNY. In his address, Prof. Dr. Hu Guoyong, Deputy Director of UNESCO TEC, outlined his institution’s profile, stating, “UNESCO TEC aims to promote global teacher education development, with a specific focus on supporting developing countries in the Asia-Pacific and Africa to improve the quality of education and teachers.”
SEAMOLEC Director Dr. Wahyudi conveyed, “One of SEAMOLEC’s missions is to support education development throughout the Southeast Asian region. Therefore, collaboration with quality educational institutions, such as UNY, is a crucial step toward realizing this vision. In relation to this collaboration, one of SEAMOLEC’s tasks is to serve as a hub that will facilitate the smooth implementation of UNESCO TEC programmes at UNY.”
At the same event, a cooperation document was also signed between SEAMOLEC and the Association of All Indonesian District Governments (APKASI) through the Adiluhung Nusantara Educational Foundation. It was jointly agreed that SEAMOLEC would provide guidance to schools and teachers in 15 Indonesian districts in 2024.
In this collaboration document, all parties committed to supporting each other and working together in the development of educational programmes, research, and community service. It is believed that through this collaboration, both institutions can create new innovations, develop relevant curricula, and further improve access to education in Indonesia.
