A Breakthrough on Digital Transformation for ASEAN HEI’s: Workshop on Quality Standardization in University’s ICT System and Management

Prince of Songkla University (PSU), in collaboration with the Institute of Software Engineering Improvement and Quality Management (ISEM) and the AUN Secretariat, successfully conducted a three-day workshop on "Quality Standardization in University's Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) System and Management" from 21 - 23 March 2023, at PSU, Phuket Campus, Thailand. 

The workshop was designed to enhance the capability of ASEAN Higher Education Institutions to achieve excellence in performance in ICT systems and management at the institutional level and address the pressing need for digital transformation by establishing the use of high-quality ICT standards. The workshop was attended by esteemed representatives from 22 AUN Member and Associate Member Universities from 8 ASEAN countries.

The first day commenced with a welcoming speech from Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakerng Wongsirichot, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs from Prince of Songkla University, and opening remarks by Dr. Choltis Dhirathiti, Executive Director of the AUN Secretariat.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakerng Wongsirichot, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs from Prince of Songkla University 

Dr. Choltis Dhirathiti, Executive Director of the AUN Secretariat.

Through the following sessions, participants were exposed to the best practices and challenges associated with digital transformation in an academic setting, the development of the ICT framework, and the significance of certifying bodies. The session featured distinguished speakers from the key team members who initiated and developed the ICT framework, namely Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sinchai Kamolphiwong, Director, PSU Office of Digital Innovation and Intelligent Systems, and Ms. Tachanun Kangwantrakool, President and Founder of ISEM.

The subsequent sessions featured knowledge-sharing sessions regarding the conceptual ICT model and its sub-standards, including project management, software development, IT services management, information security management, and organizational management. Professionals from the PSU who specialize in ICT systems and management as well as cybersecurity profoundly discussed ICT standards and exchanged best practices with the participants. 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sinchai Kamolphiwong, Director, PSU Office of Digital Innovation and Intelligent Systems

Ms. Tachanun Kangwantrakool, President and Founder of ISEM

On the following day of the workshop, participants had the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions regarding the ICT sub-standards in smaller groups. Workshop participants discussed and shared their experiences and best practices about their university's ICT system and management with representatives from various universities and countries, as well as networking with other professionals in ASEAN.

Discussions during the workshop's second day

In conclusion, the flow of knowledge in the workshop was well-received by participants who are specialized in Information Technology and experienced in managing university ICT systems. Favorable feedback from a significant number of participants signified the workshop’s importance and success as it continually provided beneficial insights into the developments in ICT systems and management. These frameworks could be applied to their institutions, adding invaluable results to the ASEAN academic settings.

In the upcoming issues of our newsletter, we would like to share the insight gathered from distinguished speakers and participating universities. Stay tuned to find out more about the breakthrough in digital transformation for ASEAN HEI!