RRI.CO.ID, Bandung - The Bandung Institute oof Technology (ITB) is advancing its commitment to international-standard education by joining the ASEAN English Leadership Forum 2026, held in Manila, Philippines, from June 3–7.

The forum brought together 34 academic leaders from 11 ASEAN countries to shape strategies for English-Medium Instruction (EMI) and curriculum internationalization, according to ITB's official website.

Representing ITB was Lusia Marliana Nurani, Head of the Language Services Unit, one of five Indonesian delegates. Her participation underscores ITB’s strategic role in enhancing English-language learning quality and expanding collaboration with the Regional English Language Office (RELO) of the U.S. Embassy.

The forum featured benchmarking sessions at Philippine Normal University and the University of Makati, focusing on curriculum internationalization, quality assurance, and language support for non-language programs.

Delegates also visited Microsoft Philippines to explore the use of artificial intelligence in teaching technical terminology and strengthening language competencies.

Workshops centered on EMI teaching standards, AI integration in learning, and the development of an Institutional Leadership Playbook. This document outlines strategic guidelines for evaluating program readiness, setting English teaching standards, and implementing curriculum development over the next 18 months.

International experts enriched the discussions: Martha Bigelow (University of Minnesota) addressed EMI curriculum design and faculty capacity-building; Ethel Agnes Valenzuela (ASEAN AI Council) highlighted language and technology policy integration; and Jennie Jocson (Philippines Teacher Education Council) shared perspectives on education reform and internationalization.

Through this forum, ITB gained valuable insights to strengthen its International Undergraduate Program (IUP) and other global initiatives. The engagement is expected to enhance ITB’s capacity to deliver world-class education, broaden international networks, and prepare graduates to compete regionally and globally. ***