ASEAN education ministers called for the digital transformation of education in the region at a virtual conference this month. Digitalizing education systems has become more urgent during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which has made face-to-face learning difficult.
The ministers agreed to promote access to digital learning and develop digital literacy and transferable skills among students to ensure that “education in ASEAN is equitable, inclusive, and fit for the future.” They also recognized that it is important to protect children from online risks by equipping them with cyber safety knowledge and skills.
The ministers shared their experiences in integrating technology in education at the online conference on 15 October 2020, which was attended by more than 100 participants representing youth, academia, the private sector, and international organizations.
They also committed to work with the private sector in developing digital literacy and connectivity solutions, especially for the most marginalized, and in bridging the skills gap by improve higher education and technical and vocational training.
