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SEAMEO VOCTECH and LabTech Academy organized the "Hybrid Teacher Upgrading Program on Empowering Teachers for IR4.0 Using Virtual TVET LabTech International, LTD" training program at LabTech International, LTD, Batam, Indonesia. The program was attended by 20 educators from three countries, namely Indonesia, Brunei, and Malaysia, who came from eight institutions, including Yogyakarta State University, Batam Polytechnic, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, BBPPMPV BOE Malang, Institute of Brunei Technical Education, BBPPMPV BMTI Bandung, Sarawak Skills Development Centre, and BBPPMPV BBL Medan. The program lasted ten days, and PTK Lecturer Dr. Ratna Wardani and PTK Doctoral Student Tinesa Fara Prihandini represented UNY.

This training program aims to build participants' knowledge and understanding of using digital and virtual technology in the context of learning and teaching. The methods used in this training program include a teacher-centered approach, discussion, collaboration, games, and a visit to LabTech Factory. The materials presented included understanding the Virtual TVET framework, implementation and use of Virtual TVET, comparing traditional teaching methods with the needs of learners in the 21st century, understanding the use of Virtual TVET in group facilitation, identifying different learning styles and how Virtual TVET can be integrated, understanding new technologies in modern training systems, identifying Virtual TVET components and how to incorporate them into lesson plans, critiquing learning facilitated using Virtual TVET, and how to conduct assessments of competencies learned.

This program is essential in facing the challenges and opportunities offered by the Industrial Revolution 4.0. In an era where technology is rapidly evolving and changing the way we work, learn, and interact, the role of teachers, lecturers, and widyaiswara is becoming increasingly crucial in preparing the younger generation to face an increasingly complex world.
This program empowers teachers with the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to integrate advanced technology into learning. They transform from mere purveyors of knowledge to facilitators of learning that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. The virtual laboratory provided by Virtual TVET LabTech International is an important platform for developing the practical skills of teachers, lecturers, and widyaiswara roles in a safe and controlled environment. (tin/ant)