In an era of rapid change driven by technology, global interconnection, and shifting landscapes, the role of teachers becomes even more challenging, and addressing the challenges posed by AI-driven education involves a collective effort to balance the human elements of teaching and learning.

This can be achieved by taking steps to humanise education, enabling educators to empower learners to effectively use technology. Deep Learning in education and Humanising Education were the main focus of discussion as educators from Brunei joined more than 1,000 teachers and school administrators from ASEAN countries and Korea at the 39th ASEAN Council of Teachers plus Korea (ACT+ Korea) Convention, held from 19 to 21 September 2025 in Cebu City, Philippines.

Themed “Educators: Humanising Education Amidst Rapidly Changing Landscapes”, the three-day convention focused on the role of teachers in balancing technology-driven learning with the human elements of education. Key topics included Deep Learning in education and strategies for humanising teaching to ensure holistic learner development.

Leading Brunei’s 15-member delegation was President of the Brunei Malay Teachers Association (BMTA) Haji Mustapa bin Haji Masri. Other participating countries included Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

The convention, co-hosted by the Philippines Public School Teachers Association, featured country reports and parallel sessions from all member countries. Representing Brunei, Sarinah Binti Ziziumiza from the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), Ministry of Education, presented a country report titled “Empowering Smart Nation: Addressing the Digital Divide through the MOE Digital Transformation Plan 2023-2027 and its Impact on IBTE, CTEL and Community Innovation Brunei Darussalam.”

Meanwhile, Acting Headmistress of Sekolah Tunas Jaya PGGMB Lambak Noridah binti Abdullah, delivered a parallel session on “Deep Learning for Humanising Teaching and Learning.” Both presentations highlighted the vital role of educators in shaping learners’ futures amidst rapid technological change while emphasising the importance of humanising education to foster holistic development.

The convention concluded with the signing of a resolution by all heads of delegations. ACT+ Korea Convention is held annually, with hosting duties rotated among member countries. Brunei previously hosted the event in 2019. – Lyna Mohammad

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin