Singapore, September 7, 2023 – The 7th annual ICDL Asia Digital Literacy Day, organised by ICDL Asia was hosted this year in Singapore by the esteemed Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) and virtually via Zoom. It celebrated a resounding success, drawing over 400 attendees. Themed “Accelerating Digital Literacy in Asia,” the event served as a pivotal platform bringing together civil servants, academic leaders, industry experts, and training providers from across the Asia-Pacific region to advocate and share insights on the importance of digital literacy in today’s interconnected world.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Her Excellency Ms. Sarah McGrath, Ambassador of Ireland to Singapore, Mr. Sim Gim Guan, Executive Director of the Singapore National Employers Federation, and Professor Wei Kwok Kee, Provost for Singapore Institute of Management, highlighting the event’s importance in driving growth in Asia through digital literacy.
Ambassador Sarah McGrath emphasised the critical role of digital literacy in her address, stating, “Digital literacy is essential for everyone in today’s connected world; it is critical for all of us to contribute and work together to ensure that everyone reaches a certain standard of digital skills to engage in the advancement of the digital economy.”
Mr. Sim Gim Guan, Executive Director of the Singapore National Employers Federation, called upon employers to prioritise digital skills development, highlighting its paramount importance for business survival in the face of disruptive technologies and uncertainties.
Mr. Robert Parua, Education Programme Specialist from UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for East Asia, commended ICDL significant contribution to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, particularly indicator 4.4.2, which focuses on the percentage of youth and adults achieving a minimum level of proficiency in digital literacy skills.
ICDL Asia Digital Skills Declaration
One of the highlights of the conference was the ICDL Asia Digital Skills Declaration, a joint commitment by ICDL, government authorities, educational institutions, and industry figures to collaborate, share knowledge, and pursue emerging Digital Transformation trends in both Asia and global arena. This declaration aims to reaffirm dedication to the continuous development of digital skills, establish standardisation of best practices, cultivate a digitally skilled workforce, and ensure the Asian region’s sustained relevance in the digital era.
Best Practices Speakers Sharing Sessions
The Best Practices Speakers’ Sessions featured insights from representatives of academic institutions and leading enterprises, highlighting the importance of digital literacy and the pivotal role of ICDL in supporting digital transformation within their organsations.
For this year’s Best Practices Sharing session, 5 representatives from academic institutions and leading enterprises were invited as our guest speakers, namely:
- Mr. Lai Fook Ming, Director, Centre for Micro-Credentials, Singapore Institute of Management
- Ms. Jullada Meejul, Acting Director General, Thailand Professional Qualification Institute
- Ms. Lorena C. ilagan, Dean, College of Engineering, University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Las Pinas Campus
- Prof. Dr. Firdaus Abdullah, Dean, Faculty of Business & Management Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
- Mr. Alvin Tan Kian Guan, Director for Business Development and Academic Program for Asia Pacific, Mainstream Engineering, Siemens Digital Industries Software
Each speaker shared valuable insights on the importance of digital literacy, and how ICDL played a pivotal role in supporting digital transformation efforts in each respective organisation.
During Digital Literacy Day 2023, ICDL Asia proudly announced the winners of the ICDL Asia Digital Challenge 2023 and the recipients of the ICDL Asia Partner Awards.
ICDL Asia Celebrates Outstanding Achievements During Digital Literacy Day
The Digital Challenge 2023 is an annual student competition showcasing the practical application of digital skills in today’s digital economy, witnessed the active participation of over 10,000 students hailing from 13 Asian territories. Over the course of six months, starting in March, students engaged in a transformative journey that culminated on September 7, during the ICDL Asia Digital Literacy Day 2023. The Digital Challenge Awards presentation took place both physically at the Singapore Institute of Management and virtually via Zoom, allowing participants from various locations to come together and celebrate their achievement. Check out winners of the Digital Challenge 2023 for the list of students who emerged as the top winners in the region.
Honouring Partners in Advancing Digital Literacy
ICDL Asia also took this occasion to extend gratitude to its partners who have played pivotal roles in the implementation of ICDL programs across Asia. These partners have been instrumental in supporting candidates in acquiring essential digital skills, contributing significantly to the region’s digital literacy landscape.
ICDL Asia Partner Awards recognise partners in four distinguished categories which includes Premier Partner of the Year, Innovative Partner of the Year, Rising Star Partner of the Year, Social Impact Partner of the Year.
These partner awards serve as a testament to the commitment and dedication of organisations that have embraced the importance of digital literacy and have actively contributed to bridging the digital skills gap in Asia. Check out ICDL Asia Partners Award 2023 Winners.
As we celebrate these exceptional students and partners, it becomes evident that the journey towards digital literacy is not just an individual endeavor but a collaborative effort that involves students, educators, and organisations working hand in hand to ensure a digitally empowered future for all.
In conclusion, the 7th annual ICDL Asia Digital Literacy Day held in Singapore has left an indelible mark on the landscape of digital literacy in Asia. With over 400 attendees and the presence of distinguished guests, this event has truly accelerated the conversation surrounding digital skills in our interconnected world.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Enterprise Ireland, Siemens, Skillsbox, and host university Singapore Institute of Management, whose generous support made this year’s success possible.
For more event photos and updates, please visit our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing you again at #DLDay2024, as we continue to accelerate digital literacy in Asia and embrace the opportunities of the digital era.
ICDL – The Digital Skills Standard
Subscribe to our newsletter today to keep up to date with our latest news and events!
ICDL in your territory