SURABAYA (stiesia.ac.id) – On Thursday, January 9, 2025, the Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Indonesia (STIESIA) Surabaya signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Council English Score Indonesia.
Alongside the signing of the MoU, an international guest lecture was conducted for STIESIA students and faculty members. The session featured Colm Downes, former British Council Director for Education, English, and Society, as the keynote speaker, offering valuable insights to participants.
The event commenced with a traditional dance performance by the STIESIA Dance Student Activity Unit (UKM Tari STIESIA). This was followed by an opening address from the Chairperson of STIESIA, Prof. Dr. Nur Fadjrih Asyik, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA., and remarks from Mr. Abdurrohman, Senior Account Manager of British Council English Score.
In their speeches, both parties expressed their shared hope for a harmonious and productive partnership. To formalize the collaboration, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place. The MoU was signed by Prof. Dr. Nur Fadjrih Asyik representing STIESIA and Mr. Abdurrohman representing the British Council English Score.
Following the MoU signing, the event continued with a guest lecture delivered by Mr. Colm Downes, an expert in English Language Teaching and an international book author. One of his works is titled ‘English Teacher Professional Development in Indonesia: Current Landscape and Future Directions,’ which was published by the British Council Indonesia in 2024
On that day, Mr. Colm Downes presented a guest lecture titled “Realizing the Power of AI: Improving English Language Proficiency, Assessment, and Global Competitiveness in Indonesian Higher Education.”
During his lecture, Mr. Downes expressed concern about he current state of English language teaching in Indonesia. He also highlighted two essential skills necessary for individuals to thrive in the era of advanced technology: English language proficiency and strong digital literacy.
Mr. Downes emphasized the growing importance of English language qualifications, pointing out that an increasing number of companies now require job candidates to have completed standardized English language assessments.
This makes English proficiency an essential additional skill that every individual must possess in the future. However, learning English often presents challenges. Attending courses and taking placement tests require dedicated time, which not all individuals have at their disposal.
However, learning English often presents challenges, as attending courses and placement tests requires dedicated time, which many individuals struggle to allocate.
In the era of technology, however, Mr. Downes highlighted that artificial intelligence (AI) could serve as a solution to the challenges of improving English language skills. While AI has often been criticized for being associated with instant solutions for completing academic tasks—potentially undermining the process of knowledge transfer—Mr. Downes emphasized its potential to play a transformative role in language learning.
“With proper usage, AI can be utilized as a supportive tool in the learning process, particularly in developing English language skills.”
Today, numerous smartphone applications offer offline English language learning services. Prospective employees no longer need to set aside dedicated time for attending courses. With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), they can now learn and test their English proficiency anytime and anywhere, providing greater flexibility and convenience.
Writter : Vinza Hedi Satria, S.Kom., M.Kom.
Editor : Fathurrochman Al Aziz
Photos : Public Relations Team