MIRI: Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) achieved two significant milestones during its International Conference on Higher Education Learning and Teaching (ICHELT) 2024 held at its campus here recently, which saw significant strides in global academic collaboration and educational innovation.
A highlight of the conference was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Curtin Malaysia and the Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University Academy of Future Education, China.
This partnership, formalised by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor of Curtin Malaysia, and Professor Dr Xiaojun Zhang, Executive
Dean of the Academy of Future Education, paves the way for joint initiatives in student exchange, collaborations in pedagogical research, and cutting-edge teaching methods, and create new avenues for cross-border learning opportunities.
Also present were Sharon Chong, Curtin Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer; Professor Tang Fu Ee, Dean of Learning and Teaching; Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Science; Professor Pauline Ho Poh Ling, Dean of Faculty of Business; and Associate Professor Fidella Tiew, Dean of School of Pre-U and Continuing Education.
Other notable attendees included Associate Professor J-Han Ho, Director of Learning and Teaching of the Learning and Teaching Innovation and Teaching Excellence Centre (LITEC) at Curtin University in Australia; Professor Rachel Sheffield of the School of Education, Faculties of Humanities; and Professor Anthony J. Langlois, Stan Perron Dean of Applied Ethics, Faculty of Business and Law.
“This MoU is a launchpad for transforming how education is delivered across borders,” stated Professor Lee.
He noted that the collaboration aligns with Curtin Malaysia’s vision of expanding its global impact and fostering a learning environment that responds to the rapid shifts in education driven by technological advancements and global challenges.
ICHELT 2024 also saw Curtin Malaysia unveiling its latest educational tool, the Malaysian version of Curtin’s ‘Balance of the Planet’ Challenge Module. This interactive platform challenges students to engage with real-world sustainability issues, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving in a global context. It reflects Curtin Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to using education as a catalyst for addressing pressing global concerns like climate change and resource management.
Themed ‘Enhancing the Student Experience’, ICHELT 2024 drew over 150 participants from around the world, both in-person and online.
The conference featured 65 paper presentations, along with special sessions that spotlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of education.
Among the highlights was the Festival of Learning, where educators and innovators shared insights into creating more inclusive, engaging, and
future-ready learning environments.
During the conference’s opening ceremony, Professor Lee underscored the significance of ICHELT as a platform for exploring the latest trends and innovations in education, particularly in the Asia Pacific region.
“We are excited to contribute to the global discourse on higher education, especially as we continue to innovate in teaching methods and
technologies. This conference demonstrates our dedication to ensuring students are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world,” he said.
Professor Tang Fu Ee, Dean of Learning and Teaching and organizing chair of the conference, remarked that the conference addressed the urgent need for educational institutions to adapt to the demands of digital engagement and the evolving expectations of students. “In today’s digital world, students expect learning experiences that are flexible, inclusive, and career-oriented.
At Curtin Malaysia, we are committed to shaping the future of
education to meet these expectations,” Professor Tang added.
With a focus on the student experience, the conference underscored the importance of integrating AI tools, hybrid learning models, and innovative pedagogies to engage students more deeply and prepare them for success in their careers.
The event not only spotlighted Curtin Malaysia’s leadership in educational innovation but also solidified its role as a key player in the global higher education landscape.
