A Journey of Growth: Embracing Opportunities Through the SEA Teacher Program

I am a Special Education student majoring in Visual Impairment at Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia, and I am honored to participate in the SEA Teacher Project Batch 10 at the University of Northern Philippines. This program represents an exciting opportunity for me to enhance my personal and professional development as I prepare to become a dedicated and innovative educator in the future. For an aspiring teacher, it is essential to cultivate a strong passion for seeking opportunities and exploring new possibilities. Teaching requires a commitment to lifelong learning, creativity, and adaptability, all of which are integral to inspiring and empowering students.

Through the SEA Teacher Program, I have gained invaluable insights into inclusive education in a different cultural and educational context. As a student specializing in Special Education, I was eager to learn about the services provided for children with special needs, curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and the challenges faced by educators in the Philippines. Observing a Kindergarten 2 class with a special needs student gave me firsthand exposure to the strengths and gaps in their inclusive practices. While the classroom environment was welcoming, it was evident that the absence of a specialized teacher limited the child’s learning opportunities. This experience highlighted the global challenges of inclusive education and inspired me to contribute to solutions in my own country.

In addition to classroom observations, I had enriching discussions with professors and teachers at the University of Northern Philippines, which broadened my understanding of inclusive education strategies and frameworks. I am deeply grateful for this program, as it not only allowed me to contribute to another country's educational system but also equipped me with valuable knowledge to bring back to Indonesia. The SEA Teacher Program has empowered me to grow as a future educator with a global perspective, ready to implement innovative and inclusive practices. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to SEAMEO for organizing this transformative program, which serves as a pivotal step in shaping my journey as a professional teacher.