By Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment
Photos by Dr. Umawathy Techanamurthy
Driven by a passion for enhancing Digital Learning in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems, Dr. Umawathy Techanamurthy, a Senior Lecturer of the TVET Engineering Unit, Engineering Education Department, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment (FKAB), was awarded the prestigious Australia Awards Indonesia Scholarship.
Funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), this scholarship allowed Dr. Umawathy Techanamurthy to participate in a highly anticipated short course on “Improving Digital Readiness and Resilience of TVET Systems in ASEAN” held in Melbourne and Adelaide, Australia.
From June 9th to June 25th, Dr. Umawathy joined a delegation of 25 TVET professionals from the ASEAN region, welcomed by the esteemed RMIT Centre for Cyber Security Research and Innovation (CCSRI) team. The program aimed to help participants adopt flexible and resilient online and blended training delivery methods and enhance digital readiness and resilience in their institutions.
In addition, the program explored the concept of digitalised teaching and learning and its role in improving digital readiness and resilience. It allowed participants to examine various options for capturing and delivering value and implementing online teaching and learning delivery strategies in their institution.
Thus, the delegates embarked on an intensive and informative journey throughout their stay in Australia, delving into various aspects of digital education, best practices, and future trends in the TVET landscape. The program provided an ideal platform for professionals to gain insights from industry leaders, engage in interactive sessions, and develop valuable networks within the TVET community.
Throughout the course, the delegates had the privilege of attending presentations from esteemed professionals at leading institutions and organizations.
“Each speaker shared their expertise, insights, and cutting-edge approaches to digital readiness and resilience in TVET systems.
“The program also provided valuable opportunities for the delegates to explore the future of work, gain insights into infrastructure layers, and experience latest innovations first-hand,” she said.
To conclude the program, the delegates had the opportunity to present their innovative ideas during Gaddie Pitches. This inspiring session, set against the backdrop of McLaren Vale, allowed the delegates to showcase their vision and commitment to advancing TVET systems in their home countries.
Dr. Umawathy said that the Australia Awards Indonesia Scholarship has undoubtedly equipped her with an enhanced understanding of digital readiness and resilience in TVET systems. She added that the valuable knowledge gained during this short course will empower her to contribute to the continuous improvement of TVET education at UKM and further strengthen educational collaborations between ASEAN countries and Australia.
