Angara pushes for digital reforms at ASEAN Summit to prepare future leaders
Philippine Education Secretary Sonny Angara called on ASEAN member states to prioritize digital transformation in education during the 13th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting (ASED) in Thailand on Aug. 26. He emphasized that policymakers must equip the region’s youth with the skills needed to face future challenges.
Angara highlighted the urgency of these reforms as ASEAN approaches critical deadlines for its Community Blueprints and begins developing strategic plans for post-2025.
“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,” he said.
While advocating for digital advancements, Angara reminded attendees that education is fundamentally a human endeavor.
“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,” he said.
He stressed the need for strong institutions, evidence-based policies, and an engaged network of stakeholders.
As the President of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) Council from 2023 to 2024, the Philippines has launched several programs aimed at fostering digital transformation.
Key initiatives include the Department of Education Digital Education 2028 (DepEd DigiEd 2028), the Higher Education Digital Integration by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Digital Skills Training in Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Angara also announced a new digital transformation initiative under the SEAMEO Council Presidency’s Flagship Programs, aligning with ASEAN’s goal of creating “a community of opportunities for all.”
“Collaboration is key,” the DepEd chief said, reflecting the belief that unity among ASEAN countries is essential for achieving educational excellence and accessibility.
The meeting also covered significant milestones, including the report on the implementation of the ASEAN Work Plan on Education (AWPE) 2021-2025 and the adoption of the ASEAN-SEAMEO Joint Declaration on Common Space in Southeast Asian Higher Education.
