MIRI – The third International Conference on Educational Research and Innovation (iCERI2025) commenced on Monday, focusing on bridging global educational research with local applications.
The event, themed “Educational Creativity and Innovation: From Global Research to Local Impact,” aims to foster dialogue on modern pedagogical approaches.
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Skills Development II (Skills Development), Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, presided over the opening ceremony.
He represented the Minister of Education, Innovation and Skills Development, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who was unable to attend.
This gathering is jointly organised by the Sarawak Campus Teacher Training Centre (IPGKS) in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Skills Development (MEITD).
It receives additional support from Business Events Sarawak (BES) and Meritz Hotel, running from 21 to 23 October 2025.
A diverse assembly of over 1,400 participants from various countries has converged for the conference.
The attendees include 119 academic presenters, 192 innovation teams, and 32 robotics teams, comprising students, educators, researchers, and policy makers.
In a speech delivered by Datuk Francis Harden, Dato Sri Roland Sagah highlighted iCERI’s function as a vibrant platform that integrates theoretical research with practical learning experiences.
He emphasised how global insights can be adapted to produce tangible outcomes at a national level.
The minister also outlined the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programme (SEEP), an initiative designed to create a more inclusive and competitive education system.
Key targets include raising student enrolment in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields to 60 per cent by 2030.
Another significant measure involves expanding the Sarawak Dual Language Programme (DLP) to secondary schools starting in 2026.
This effort seeks to strengthen proficiency in science, mathematics, and English language skills among students.
Authorities have encouraged the cultivation of an innovation culture from an early age within schools. Students are being provided with opportunities to showcase their creative ideas and projects through various channels.
The three-day conference features presentations from international academics hailing from the United Kingdom, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
Discussions cover a range of subjects including emerging global education trends, innovative teaching methodologies, and the integration of technology in classrooms.
Such events align with Sarawak’s broader strategy to enhance its educational framework and prepare students for future challenges.
The conference serves as a catalyst for exchanging best practices and fostering international collaborations in education.
The presence of numerous innovation and robotics teams underscores the growing emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning.
These elements are considered crucial for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities among young learners.
Educational conferences like iCERI play a vital role in shaping policy and practice by bringing together stakeholders from multiple sectors.
The insights gained are expected to influence local educational strategies and curriculum development.
