COL-CEMCA and NITTTR-Chennai Champion AI Integration in Vocational Education Across Asia
The Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (COL-CEMCA), the regional centre of the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), has joined hands with the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research, Chennai (NITTTR-C), Tamil Nadu, to strengthen institutions and faculty engaged in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Together, they are conducting an international online training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in TVET from 7 to 18 April 2025. The programme brings together over 60 participants from six Asian Commonwealth nations—Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Malaysia, Maldives, and Singapore.
Designed for TVET educators, trainers, institutional heads, and policymakers, this two-week programme aims to build capacity for the effective integration of AI in vocational education. The curriculum covers a wide range of themes, including AI-enabled smart classrooms, competency-based curriculum development, industrial applications, ethical considerations, and innovative assessment strategies. A particular focus is placed on AI solutions that promote inclusion, accessibility, multilingual education, and data-informed decision-making.
In his special address as the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the training programme, Shri Mrutyunjay Behera, Economic Advisor (HE) at the Ministry of Education, Government of India, applauded the collaboration and active participation from six Commonwealth countries. He praised COL-CEMCA’s tech-driven initiatives, likening human-AI collaboration to the fable of the tortoise and the hare—progress is best achieved when working together. He stressed the need for responsible AI implementation that narrows, rather than widens, societal divides, noting that this training marks a significant step towards scalable and ethical AI use in TVET.
Prof. Usha Natesan, Director of NITTTR Chennai, delivered the inaugural address, acknowledging the fruitful partnership with COL-CEMCA and expressing hope that participants would return with the capability to embed AI meaningfully in TVET teaching and learning.
Dr B. Shadrach, Director of COL-CEMCA, in his keynote address, highlighted how AI is reshaping the future of work, workers, and workplaces through automation, enhanced productivity, and new job roles. Workers must adapt by acquiring digital and soft skills. Future workplaces will rely on smart technologies, prioritizing efficiency and inclusivity, while raising ethical concerns. AI in TVET can personalize learning, automate tasks, and expand access. The two-week programme aims to equip educators and institutions across Asia with the skills to integrate AI effectively in vocational training.
Dr Sasirekha Selvakumar, Associate Professor at NITTTR Chennai, outlined the course objectives, which include equipping participants to create AI-enabled educational materials. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms Nabeela Ata, Consultant, COL-CEMCA.
