The University of Northern Philippines (UNP), under the leadership of its administrators, hosted a two-day comprehensive training workshop on “AI in Educational Management,” bringing together student leaders and administrators to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping future-ready educational systems. Guided by the theme “Leveraging AI for Future-Ready University,” the program aimed to enhance participants’ capabilities in applying AI to educational management.

The workshop’s highlight was the expertise of Dr. Juan Robertino “Robbie” Macalde, Manager of the Learning Development and Management Office at the SEAMEO Regional Center for Educational Innovation and Technology. His sessions covered essential topics, including AI applications in education, design thinking for policy development, and drafting AI policy guidelines.

The program combined insightful lectures with hands-on workshops, encouraging participants to apply learned concepts in practical scenarios. Highlights included group discussions, drafting AI policy frameworks, and addressing critical areas such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and implementation strategies.

The sessions were designed to balance theoretical insights with practical applications, beginning with an introduction to AI and its wide-ranging uses in education. Participants engaged in a dynamic design thinking workshop on Day 1, which challenged them to address policy challenges related to AI adoption creatively.

Day 2 followed intensive sessions on drafting AI policy guidelines. Participants collaborated on creating actionable strategies that addressed key areas such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and implementation frameworks. The final module emphasized group presentations, where teams showcased their outputs and received feedback to refine their ideas further.

The workshop emphasized practical and immediate applications of AI concepts. Participants left with well-developed AI policy frameworks tailored to educational settings, ready for implementation. Discussions during the sessions encouraged participants to consider both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI integration in education, ensuring ethical and sustainable practices.

Participants also presented their outputs, reflecting collaborative efforts to refine and consolidate policy guidelines. This initiative provided participants with the tools and frameworks needed to adapt to technological advancements, ensuring that educational institutions are prepared for future demands.

Dr. Macalde’s guidance from SEAMEO provided a unique perspective, blending regional innovation and practical strategies for AI adoption. The workshop enabled participants to develop actionable frameworks tailored to their institutions, ensuring ethical and effective integration of AI in educational management.

This collaboration between UNP leaders and SEAMEO reaffirmed the university’s commitment to innovation and its proactive approach to preparing educational institutions for the opportunities and challenges of an AI-driven future.

Article by Edmar Paguirigan, Photo by Noelle Jnyx Tacas.