UDM Strengthens International Collaboration on TVET Digital Transformation and SDG Data Gathering in Beijing Workshop
The Universidad de Manila (UDM) proudly represented the Philippines at the China–Southeast Asia Capacity Development Workshop on TVET Digital Transformation for Sustainable Rural Development, held from August 17 to 22, 2025, in Beijing, People’s Republic of China.
Guided by UNESCO INRULED and SEAMEO TED, and co-organized with the ASEAN-China Centre and Beijing Normal University (BNU), the workshop served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and collaboration among educators, policymakers, and researchers from Southeast Asia and China.
Representing UDM, Dr. Silvia Catalan Ambag presented the Philippines Country Report titled “Strategies for Upskilling TVET Trainers in Emerging Technologies in the Philippines” at Beijing Normal University on August 18, 2025. Her presentation underscored national efforts to enhance the competencies of TVET trainers in line with Industry 4.0 demands and to bridge the digital divide in rural education.
Meanwhile, Dr. Virginia Berganio, UDM Assistant Director, presented UDM’s Best Practices in Microcredentialling on August 21, 2025, at Beijing Polytechnic University. Her presentation drew considerable attention from ASEAN delegates, who recognized UDM’s microcredentialling framework as a promising model for flexible and lifelong learning. Several institutions expressed interest in forging partnerships with UDM to replicate and scale similar initiatives.
The week-long program included forums, academic exchanges, and enterprise study visits to technology giants such as Huawei and Alibaba, offering participants firsthand insights into China’s integration of digital education and smart industries. Cultural exchanges further strengthened ASEAN–China collaboration and mutual understanding.
The workshop’s key outcomes included strengthened knowledge-sharing and policy dialogue on digital TVET, greater recognition of UDM’s innovations in microcredentialling, and expanded networks for international cooperation. These outcomes underscore UDM’s leadership in advancing digital transformation and inclusive education across ASEAN.
UDM’s participation reflects its continuing commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By contributing to this global dialogue, UDM reaffirms its role as a forward-thinking institution driving quality, equitable, and future-ready education in the Philippines and beyond.
