Rizal Technological University (RTU) is among the esteemed institutions participating in the 17th (Asia-Europe Foundation) ASEF Classroom Network Conference, which commenced on November 12, 2024, at the Geronima T. Pecson Main Auditorium, Philippine Normal University (PNU). The weeklong event, themed “Learning about AI and Learning with AI,” draws 120 educators and experts from across Asia and Europe to discuss the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.

Representing RTU was Dr. Faith Micah D. Balbin, Director of the Institute of Flexible Learning and Digital Education (IFLDE).

In her opening remarks, ASEF Executive Director Ambassador Beata Stoczyńska emphasized the conference’s mission to empower educators to harness AI as a tool for educational advancement and development. “This gathering provides an invaluable platform for educators to explore AI’s impact on teaching and learning, guiding us to navigate the future responsibly,” Ambassador Stoczyńska remarked.

Philippine Normal University President Dr. Bert J. Tuga also addressed the assembly, sharing insights into PNU’s legacy as the National Center for Teacher Education and extending a warm welcome to all the delegates. Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. John Carlo M. Ramos, Executive Director of ASTEN, highlighted the program’s extensive preparation to foster meaningful collaboration and idea exchange among participants.

Following the formal opening, Dr. Wayne Holmes from University College London and Dr. Kyungmee Lee from Seoul National University presented the first keynote, “Learning about AI and Learning with AI: Asian and European Teachers’ Perspectives at a Glance.” The keynote covered recent AI trends, challenges, and opportunities in education, and featured the release of the ASEFClassNet17 Survey Report, which compiled insights from secondary school teachers across Asia and Europe on AI’s integration into education.

Another key moment was the launch of the publication Artificial Intelligence and Education: The Views of Teachers from Asia and Europe, a collaborative work capturing the perspectives of educators on AI policies and teaching practices in both regions.

The gathering sets the stage for days of workshops and discussions, where educators will explore innovative teaching approaches, culminating in elevator pitches of project ideas by participants.

Supported by various institutions, including RTU, the event highlights the vital intersection of AI and education, aiming to equip educators with forward-thinking practices that will shape the future of learning worldwide.