To better prepare the region's youth for future challenges, the Philippines, through the Department of Education (DepEd), urged ASEAN member states to prioritize digital transformation in education.
In a statement issued on Monday, Aug. 26, DepEd said Education Secretary Sonny Angara made this call during the 13th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting (ASED) held in Buriram, Thailand, where he highlighted the “collective responsibility” of policymakers to equip learners with the skills and values needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“We have a duty to ensure that our students are not merely passive recipients of knowledge but active citizens capable of shaping their futures and contributing to the growth of their communities and the entire ASEAN region,” Angara said.
Angara also stressed the urgency of these reforms as ASEAN approaches critical deadlines for its Community Blueprints and begins developing post-2025 strategic plans.
This year’s meeting also highlighted significant milestones, including the report on the implementation of the ASEAN Work Plan on Education (AWPE) 2021-2025, the adoption of the ASEAN-SEAMEO Joint Declaration on Common Space in Southeast Asian Higher Education, and the updated ASEAN Plus Three Guidelines on Student Exchange and Mobility.
Education is a human endeavor
While advocating for digital advancements, Angara emphasized that education is a human endeavor that requires robust institutions, evidence-based policies, skilled civil servants, and an actively engaged network of stakeholders.
“Yes, the future will be increasingly digital, but we must remember that education is still a human endeavor—technology is simply a tool to address real human challenges,” Angara said.
Promoting digital transformation
As President of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) Council for 2023 to 2024, the Philippines has launched various programs to promote digital transformation.
Angara highlighted several key initiatives, including DepEd Digital Education 2028 (DepEd DigiEd 2028), the Higher Education Digital Integration program by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Digital Skills Training in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
He also announced the launch of a new digital transformation initiative under the SEAMEO Council Presidency’s Flagship Programs, aligned with ASEAN’s objective of establishing a “community of opportunities for all.”
‘Collaboration is key’
Meanwhile, Angara emphasized the significance of collaboration, highlighting the Marcos administration's conviction that unity and cooperation among ASEAN countries and their education ministries are crucial for attaining educational excellence and accessibility throughout the region.
“We achieve more together,” Angara said as he underscored the importance of shared commitment and partnership.