Monash University, Indonesia hosts EduVate 2024: Exploring the transformative power of innovative learning and Generative AI in higher education
EduVate 2024, hosted at Monash University Indonesia, focused on knowledge-sharing and highlighting innovative solutions in higher education.
South Tangerang - Monash University, Indonesia, in collaboration with Monash University, Malaysia and Lembaga Layanan Pendidikan Tinggi (LLDIKTI) IV West Java and Banten, hosted EduVate 2024—a three-day event themed “Learning and Teaching Innovation Showcase in Higher Education,” held from August 19 to 21. The event was joined by over 200 participants of prominent educators and visionaries for thought-provoking discussions on pressing issues, emerging trends, and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of higher education, including the impact of Generative AI. "
This event is part of a broader initiative designed to offer a unique and enriching educational experience targeting students and changemakers, especially those from partner universities that have recently joined the strategic alliance with Monash University, Indonesia.
Professor Matthew Nicholson, Pro Vice-Chancellor and President (Monash University, Indonesia), stressed the importance of higher education adapting to the rapidly changing landscape. “This EduVate event was designed to showcase a strategic and nuanced approach to integrating innovative learning into higher education, ultimately paving the way for academic and research excellence,” said Professor Matthew.
Professor Matthew Nicholson, Pro Vice-Chancellor and President (Monash University, Indonesia), delivered his welcoming remarks at EduVate 2024.
Samsuri, Head of LLDIKTI IV West Java and Banten, echoed this sentiment, emphasised, “EduVate 2024 aligns with LLDIKTI IV mission to foster collaborations between higher education institutions. This event has shown us that the future of education lies in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to lifelong learning, ensuring that no one is left behind in this rapidly evolving landscape,” added Samsuri.
The discussions featured insights from prominent figures, including Najelaa Shihab, a psychologist, educator, and founder of Pusat Studi Pendidikan dan Kebijakan (PSPK); Salman Subakat, CEO of NSEI Paragon Corp; Itje Chodidjah, Executive Chair of the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO; Melissa Wong, Senior Education Designer, Monash University, Malaysia; and Professor Alex Lechner, Vice President of Research, Monash University, Indonesia.
In her keynote address, esteemed educator, Najelaa Shihab highlighted the essential elements that academics need to focus on to excel and make a significant impact on their students' lives. She outlined four keys that require support from higher education stakeholders: Competence, Freedom, Collaboration, and Career. According to her, academics must continually enhance their skills and knowledge (Competence), have the autonomy to innovate in their teaching methods (Freedom), engage in meaningful partnerships with peers and industry (Collaboration), and have clear pathways for career development (Career) to foster a transformative educational environment.
Speaking at EduVate, Salman Subakat, CEO of NSEI (Nurhayati Subakat Entrepreneurship Institute) Paragon Corp, emphasised the critical role of academic-industry collaboration in preparing the workforce for future challenges. He stated, "By integrating Paragon’s 39-year journey as the leading cosmetic brand in Indonesia with Monash University’s cutting-edge research expertise—such as in biotech innovations—we can build a strong partnership. This collaboration is vital, offering an opportunity to co-create programs that combine academic excellence with practical, real-world experience, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills needed in today’s dynamic job market.”
At the EduVate 2024 panel discussion, Itje Chodidjah, Executive Chair of the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO, highlighted critical strategies for academics in higher education to remain relevant in their respective fields. Dr. Itje emphasised the importance of contextualising technology to fit the unique learning environments and needs of students, ensuring that digital tools genuinely support educational outcomes. She also urged academics to commit to lifelong learning, continually updating their knowledge and skills. Furthermore, Dr. Itje underscored the necessity for academics to embrace innovation and adaptability, stressing that staying responsive to global changes is crucial for maintaining a dynamic and forward-thinking educational experience.
One of the panel discussions titled “Navigating the Intersection of Pedagogy, Technology, Equity, and Quality in Higher Education,” featured insights from (left to right) Gatot Soepriyanto, Binus@Bekasi Campus Director; Itje Chodidjah, Executive Chair of the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO; Arif Perdana, Associate Professor, Monash University, Indonesia; and Pipit Indrawati, Canva for Education Lead Indonesia/SEA
During the event, several other actionable solutions were proposed, including designing future-focused curricula that encourage active engagement and collaboration, fostering a culture of lifelong learning among educators and students, creating industry-relevant learning experiences, and leveraging AI-driven visualisation to enrich research and effectively identify practical solutions.
A Way Forward with AI: Towards Equitable and Inclusive Higher Education
Generative AI is set to revolutionise the future of jobs in the coming years. The latest McKinsey Global Survey on AI reveals that three-quarters of respondents expect generative AI to bring significant or disruptive changes to their industries in the near future. This shift raises critical questions about the skills needed in an AI-driven world and how higher education can stay ahead of this AI revolution.
These pressing questions were also central to the thought-provoking discussions at EduVate 2024. The event highlighted how Generative AI can break down traditional barriers in higher education, paving the way for a future where personalised learning is accessible to all.
“AI will not replace human intelligence; rather, it will underscore the importance of essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in navigating the potential biases and limitations that AI may present.”
“In turn, AI's capacity to analyse vast amounts of data and adapt to individual learning styles enables tailored educational experiences, helping students learn at their own pace and enhancing the overall learning process. By embracing AI as a tool for empowerment rather than a threat, we can better equip students to thrive in an AI-driven world,” added Professor Matthew.
At Monash University, Indonesia, AI-driven data visualisation has already been applied in real-world contexts, such as the partnership with the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) to monitor hate speech during the 2024 General Election. This innovative approach is expected to be utilised again in the forthcoming Governor Election this November.
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About Monash University, Indonesia
Officially operating in October 2021, Monash University, Indonesia, is a manifestation of the commitment of Monash University and the Indonesian government to create knowledge that can contribute broadly to the development of Indonesia's social, technological, and economic sectors.
Monash University, Indonesia, offers Master's degree programs majoring in Business Innovation, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Marketing and Digital communications, Public Health, Public Policy and Management, Urban Design, Sustainability, and PhD, along with various executive and micro-credential programs aimed at specific sectors.
Monash University, Indonesia, has learning facilities according to Monash University Australia standards and is currently opening applications for new student admissions and scholarships for study in October 2024 and January 2025, which are now open for registration.
Monash also has a proud long-term relationship with Indonesia and is a foreign university with the most significant number of Indonesian graduates compared to other foreign universities. Monash's track record of good relations with Indonesia is manifested in collaboration between parties such as the Herb Feith Center, RISE, World Mosquito Program, and Citarum Action Research Program (CARP).
With a presence on three continents, international partnerships, and study abroad programs worldwide, Monash is Australia's largest university, ranking in the top 100 universities worldwide. Monash has a dynamic network of research and teaching locations in Australia, Italy, Malaysia, China, and India.
The unique alliance with the University of Warwick (UK) sits alongside international collaborations with leading universities and companies worldwide, expanding the University's global network.
For more information, visit our Monash University, Indonesia website. Information regarding academic profiles, visit our academic staff page. Impact 2030, Monash University's strategic plan for the next ten years, can be accessed here.
MEDIA INFO:
Suryo Danuwinoto
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Monash University, Indonesia
Email: danu.danuwinoto@monash.edu
Ade Ristya
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Burson Indonesia
Phone: +6282112304314