In 2023, the School of Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) established a significant collaboration with Universitas Sriwijaya (UNSRI), focusing on Physics and Technology Education. Recognizing the immense potential of this partnership, UTM’s participation in the 6th Sriwijaya University Learning and Education International Conference (SULE-IC) 2024, held in Palembang from September 19th to 26th, through the Students Mobility Programme, marks an important milestone in fostering people-to-people connections and expanding educational opportunities between the two institutions.
Key Highlights of SULE-IC 2024
Centered around the theme “Learning Transformation and Innovation in The Digital Era”, SULE-IC 2024 featured a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers from diverse academic backgrounds. Among them were:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hartono, M.A., Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, UNSRI, Indonesia.
- Prof. Dr. Kathy Cabe Trundle, School of Teacher Education and Leadership, Utah State University (USU), United States.
- Prof. Dr. M. Rusdi, M.Sc., Universitas Jambi (UNJA), Indonesia.
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Willy A. Renandya, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore.
- Assoc. Prof. Karren Ferreira Meyers, Coordinator of Linguistics and Modern Languages, University of Eswatini (UNESWA), Eswatini.
- Assoc. Prof. Wanty Widjaja, Deakin University, Australia.
The speakers covered a wide range of thought-provoking topics, from the critical role of pre-service teachers in addressing climate change to navigating the challenges of artificial intelligence and rekindling essential critical thinking skills. Discussions also explored hybrid learning models, innovative curriculum development, dynamic evaluation, and the benefits of project-based learning. UTM was proudly represented by Dr. Nor Farahwahidah Abdul Rahman and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Dayana Abd Halim from FSSH, who contributed valuable insights to these important conversations.
Beyond the Conference: A Cultural and Academic Exchange
After a full schedule of academic discussions, UTM delegates had the opportunity to explore the vibrant culture and history of Palembang. They sampled local delicacies like Pempek, Mie Celor, and Martabak, while taking in the sights of the iconic Ampera Bridge, a cruise along the Musi River, and a tour through Palembang’s historic streets, once the heart of the Sriwijaya Empire. These experiences brought the pages of history to life, adding a memorable cultural dimension to their academic journey.
A Continued Scholarly Mission at UNSRI
Following the conference, UTM’s academic engagement continued at UNSRI’s Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP). While faculty members led workshops, postgraduate students interacted with secondary school students at the UNSRI Lab School as part of the Student Mobility Programme. The UTM team also presented their research papers during the International Colloquium at UNSRI’s Unit Pelaksana Teknis. The day concluded with a warm and lively dinner hosted by the lecturers of FKIP UNSRI at Bakso Cartel, cementing the bonds formed during this collaborative exchange.
Fostering Growth Through Shared Educational Pursuits
This international collaboration underscores the importance of connecting with professionals from various educational disciplines and perspectives. The exchange of ideas, passion for academic growth, and shared enthusiasm for learning not only enriches the participants but also contributes to the long-term success of both UTM and UNSRI in their mission to advance education and research globally.
Written by Walter Umpang anak Moses
PPP223042, PhD Student
Curriculum and Instructions, FSSH
