2024/2025 Asia Mission
Dr Seámus Ó Tuama, Chair of the ASEM Lifelong Learning Hub, has commenced another mission to Asia for 2024/2025. The goal is to enhance educational connections and foster collaboration in lifelong learning and adult education within the ASEM community and to invite new members to participate in this diverse community. This journey serves as a vital bridge, facilitating the exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise to advance educational practices in both regions.
During this period, Dr Ó Tuama will engage with educators, policymakers, and learners, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas, best practices, and innovations in lifelong learning. Join us as we document the Chair’s journey and become part of the ASEM lifelong learning mission.
Philippines
Dr Séamus Ó Tuama was welcomed by Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Dr Ethel Agnes Pascua- V. Their discussions on ASEM LLL Hub and lifelong learning initiatives will be crucial for advancing education in their regions.
Joining them were key representatives from the CHED Office of programes and Standards Development including Ms Mutya Mangubat, as well as Mr John Paul Leseaca and Mr Jonathon Quiber from the Office of the Commissioner. Together they explored ways to enhance educational frameworks and promote lifelong learning in their communities.
While in the Philippines, Dr Ó’Tuama had the opportunity to meet with Jerome Buenviaje, Dean of the UP College of Education at University of the Philippines (UP). Their discussion focused on the ASEM LLL Hub initiatives and the upcoming bidding for chairmanship. This collaboration highlights our commitment to advancing education and fostering partnerships within the region.
Exciting developments ahead!
lao pdr
Dr Séamus Ó Tuama delivered a presentation at the National University of Laos; ‘Placing the Learner at the Centre: Reflexive Modernity and Lifelong Learning’.
korea
In Korea, Dr Séamus Ó’Tuama visited the National Institute for Lifelong Learning, meeting with Director, Eun Ju Lee, and Programme Specialist for International Affairs, Min-Seon Park. Dr Séamus Ó Tuama is pictured below with Eun Ju Lee, Han Sik Shim and Min-Seon Park.
Dr Séamus Ó’Tuama also met with Professor Lee Hee Su, Chung-Ang University, Seoul – one of Korea’s most esteemed authorities on lifelong learning, to discuss expanding Korean membership in the seven ASEM LLL Hub networks. The event was hosted at NILE, supported by Min-Seon Park, Programme Specialist at NILE.
CHIna
In China, Dr. Séamus Ó Tuama, participated in the SEAMEO RIHED 2024 Inter-Regional Research Symposium, which brought together experts and stakeholders from across Asia and beyond to explore advancements in lifelong learning and higher education. During the event, Dr. Ó Tuama had the opportunity to engage with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zoe Che, Vice President of the Geely Talent Development Group, and Doris Wu, a representative of the Geely Talent Development Group. Their discussions focused on innovative approaches to workforce development, international collaboration, and the role of lifelong learning in driving sustainable development.
Dr Ó’Tuama also met with Dr Romyen Kosaikanont, Centre Director, Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Higher Education and Development (SEAMEO RIHED), who organised this year’s INter Regional Research Symposium.
Dr Dr Ó’Tuama attended a presentation by Prof. Dr. Tan Tai Yong, President, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore who discussed why universities need to “change or die” and the need to adapt a lifelong learning strategy as an urgent priority for universities.
He also attended an insightful and inspiring keynote by Dr Supachai Yavapraphas, former Director of SEAMEO RIHED, who, Dr Ó’Tuama reflected, is “an amazing, positive and paradigm changing leader.”
Thailand
During a visit to Chulalongkorn University to discuss the future of the ASEM LLL Hub and the contribution of Chulalongkorn University, Dr Séamus Ó Tuama, met with the Chair Professor Wilert Puriwat, Ph.D., President of Chulalongkorn University and Associate Professor Palanee Ammaranond, Ph.D., Vice President Chulalongkorn University.
He was also welcomed by Dr Suwithida Charungkaittikul of Chulalongkorn University and he had the opportunity to experience cultural exchange during the trip as part of his work to strengthen global partnerships for Lifelong learning.
Japan
While in Japan, Dr Ó’Tuama was welcomed by Dr Midori Sakaguchi, Professor, Department of Sociology, Meiji Gakuin University. Dr Sakaguchi is a member of RN 6 and has been contributing as a member of the Lifelong Learning Committee of Saitama Prefecture, Minato-ward and Bunkyo-ward in Tokyo. She is former President of the Japan Association of Lifelong Education.
