As part of SEAQIS’ commitment to educational enhancement, 4 March 2024 became the start of a transformative training session and the formalisation of a joint agreement aimed at advancing education in East Nusa Tenggara Province. This agreement was signed by Mr Reza Setiawan (Deputy Director for Programmes) with other representatives from six SEAMEO Centres Indonesia, Education Quality Assurance Centre of East Nusa Tenggara Province, Professional Development Centre for Educators of East Nusa Tenggara Province, the Mayor of Kupang Regency, the Mayor of Kupang City, and the Education Officers of Kupang Regency and Kupang City. SEAQIS representatives were the pioneers in putting this collaboration into action.
The focus of this collaboration is on enhancing teachers’ pedagogical skills and knowledge through training and mentoring, as well as students’ literacy and numeracy skills in Kupang. Led by Ms Poppy Kamalia Devi and Ms Lintang Ratri Prastika, 40 primary teachers were guided from 4 to 7 March 2024. Participants were engaged in dynamic activities and science experiments to master the necessary tools or methods to spark students’ science curiosity as well as deepen their understanding of fundamental scientific principles and acquire the skills to demonstrate at school. Another focus of this training was on developing student worksheets with the DARTs (Directed Activities Related to Texts) method. This assists teachers in engaging with students, fostering critical thinking skills, ensuring alignment with curriculum, and stimulating student interest as well as active participation in the learning process.
This collaboration through agreement and training sessions signifies a collective commitment toward fostering a culture of educational excellence in East Nusa Tenggara Province. By using the knowledge and resources of respected educational institutions, this effort promises a better future with improved skills for students and a higher educational status for the province.
Writer: Novianti & Lintang Ratri P.
Proofreaders: Rasya Salsabila N. & Ayu Intan H.