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Asia’s university leaders urge responsible integration of AI in higher education at HELF 2024

by Michelle Jeanne Casiple Caracut | Nov 14 2024

On November 4, leaders from the Philippine higher education sector and ATUNet member institutions gathered at Cheradel Suites Buchorno Banquet Hall in Iligan City for the Higher Education Leaders Forum (HELF) 2024. This important event aimed to address the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education, focusing on the transformative potential of AI as well as the careful considerations needed for its integration into educational practices.

Following the 12th Annual ATUNet Board Meeting that took place in the morning, the forum brought together university officials, policymakers, and representatives from Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) to explore the critical balance between embracing AI and maintaining ethical standards. Organized by èßäAV (MSU-IIT), in partnership with ATUNet and the Commission on Higher Education - International Affairs Service (CHED-IAS), this collaborative initiative facilitated discussions on the ethical, social, and economic implications of AI in transforming teaching and learning.

Chancellor Alizedney M. Ditucalan welcomed the delegates to the forum, acknowledging the rapid evolution of AI and its far-reaching effects on industries, economies, and societies worldwide. In his opening remarks, he remarked, “As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial for educational leaders to adopt and proactively shape its influence in teaching, learning, research, and institutional management.” His call to action set the tone for discussions that underscored the urgent need for educational institutions to adapt to technological advancements while ensuring ethical applications.

An inspiring message from His Excellency Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, the Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, highlighted the significance of international collaboration in the educational landscape. He encouraged delegates to embrace innovation while being mindful of the ethical considerations that accompany the adoption of new technologies.

Participants of the forum engaged in focused discussions grouped into three key topics:

The first topic was Transforming Curriculum in Philippine HEIs: Embracing Digital Tools and Pedagogies for a Modern Education System, in which the discussion was facilitated by Prof. Amelia T. Buan, Principal of the MSU-IIT’s College of Education-Integrated Developmental School.

The participants of this group talked about the future of their students, envisioning what they might look like ten years from now. Many predicted that students will need to navigate a rapidly changing world characterized by technological advancements, shifting job markets, and an increasing demand for critical thinking and adaptability. To prepare them for this future, the conversation turned to how the curriculum can be redesigned to better align with these anticipated changes. Participants explored various curriculum innovations that Philippine higher education institutions can implement today, focusing on the integration of digital tools and pedagogies that enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. By embracing these innovative approaches, institutions can equip students with the necessary skills and competencies to thrive in their future careers.

The second group discussed Digital Divide and Internationalization: Challenges Facing Philippine HEIs in the Global Education Landscape, facilitated by Dr. Shiella C. Balbutin, Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Networking of Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan.

In this topic, the participants discussed the critical impact of the digital divide on their institution's ability to engage in international educational collaborations. They recognized that disparities in digital access can significantly limit participation in virtual exchanges and collaborative projects, ultimately creating unequal opportunities for students and faculty. To address this issue, the group shared several initiatives aimed at ensuring more equitable access to digital resources. Some of these initiatives included expanding Wi-Fi access, providing digital literacy training, promoting the use of open educational resources, and fostering collaborative efforts with community organizations. The discussion also highlighted the essential role of partnerships between the government, private sector, and educational institutions in bridging the digital divide. Furthermore, participants explored how technology can be leveraged to create a more inclusive approach to internationalization in higher education, ensuring that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, can benefit from global educational opportunities.

The third topic discussed was Navigating Institutional Barriers and Cultural Adaptations: Challenges and Opportunities in Staff and Student Mobility Across Asia’s Diverse Higher Education Landscape, facilitated by Dr. Lauren Chua-Garcia, former Vice President for External Relations and Internationalization of De La Salle University. 

The participants for this topic engaged in a thoughtful discussion centered on the impact of cultural misunderstandings on educational collaboration and exchange, with attendees sharing examples of how such misunderstandings have hindered progress. They also examined the measures taken to address these challenges effectively. Another topic of interest was the significant institutional barriers that limit the mobility of staff and students, with participants reflecting on their own experiences and proposing potential solutions to overcome these obstacles. The forum also explored how higher education institutions (HEIs) can cultivate intercultural competence among their communities, which is crucial for fostering effective and respectful international collaborations. Additionally, the role of technology in supporting staff and student mobility was discussed, with various tools and platforms being highlighted for their effectiveness in facilitating cross-border educational experiences. Overall, the conversation underscored the importance of addressing these issues to enhance global educational exchanges.

The forum concluded with a consensus that, while AI presents unprecedented opportunities, its integration into education must be approached with caution and a deep sense of responsibility.  This sentiment was echoed during the keynote address given by Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, President of the Mindanao State University, who asserted, “...let us remember that AI and digital technology, powerful as they are, must be guided by the best of and for humanity. As we ideate the omnipresence of AI, we must remain anchored in the values that define our schools.”

In another keynote address, Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, Vice Chancellor of the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) International discussed the future of higher education in the digital age, stressing the importance of integrating a humanistic approach into curricula across disciplines. He emphasized that nurturing AI-literate graduates is essential while addressing the ethical challenges of AI governance. His message highlighted that humanistic and charismatic values elevate higher education to greater heights.

Additionally, Ir. Achmad Wicaksono, M. Eng., Ph.D., contributed a plenary talk on “Research-Enterprise Collaboration Models in the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Innovation and Global Impact,” further enriching the dialogue.

The forum also featured exploratory presentations by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, CESO IV, Executive Director of CHED-IAS, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin bin Abu Hassan, Director, UTM International and ATU-Net Executive Director, which added further depth to the discussions.

Vice Chancellor for International Affairs Dr. Joey Genevieve Martinez also emphasized in his closing remarks the transformative potential of AI in making education more efficient, accessible, and responsive to the diverse needs of learners. He cautioned, however, that challenges must be addressed as institutions move forward in their integration of AI technologies.

As HELF 2024 concluded alongside the 12th Annual ATUNet Board Meeting, the ideas generated during these discussions promise to guide Asia’s and Philippines’ higher education institutions in navigating the complexities of AI integration. The commitment to align advancements with ethical principles and community needs was clear throughout the discussions.

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