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Recently, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) welcomed an international delegation of Sri Lankan psychology professionals and early childhood educators for a high-impact academic engagement under the Ninth Commonwealth Global Learning Programme, guided by the theme “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”

The programme was designed to foster meaningful international collaboration by facilitating knowledge exchange, strengthening professional competencies, and exploring innovative approaches in psychology, counselling, and early childhood education across diverse cultural contexts.

Organised in collaboration with the School of Psychology (SoP) at APU, the programme was led by Ms Vinorra Shaker (Head, SoP at APU), with support from SoP staff, as well as staff from Student Services and Marketing.

Exploring Contemporary Approaches in Psychology and Counselling

The programme commenced with a psychology and counselling track, led by Mr Jaff Choong Gian Yong (Lecturer, SoP at APU), focusing on contemporary approaches that reflect the evolving landscape of mental health practice.

The session was designed to bridge current theoretical developments with practical application, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment for participants.

Through case-based discussions and interactive exchanges, participants explored key areas such as culturally responsive counselling, emerging therapeutic models, and the application of research in real-world settings.

Emphasis was placed on adapting global psychological frameworks to suit diverse cultural contexts, ensuring relevance for Sri Lankan practitioners working within their own communities.

In addition, the session introduced emerging trends such as digital mental health and technology-enabled interventions, to which it encouraged participants to critically reflect on how modern tools and innovations can be ethically and effectively integrated into their professional practice. 

Rethinking Early Childhood Education for Holistic Development

Running concurrently, the early childhood education track led by Ms Subashini Ganesan (Lecturer, SoP at APU), focused on forward-looking pedagogical approaches centred on holistic child development.

The session introduced practical strategies for classroom engagement, inclusive learning environments, and innovative teaching methods; all grounded in global best practices.

For the participants, these insights provided adaptable solutions that can be implemented across a wide range of educational settings; from structured classrooms to community-based learning environments.

On top of that, participants engaged in interactive discussions and reflective activities that encouraged them to share their classroom experiences and contextual challenges.

These exchanges enabled collaborative problem-solving and deeper understanding of how the strategies could be adapted effectively within their respective teaching environments.

Strengthening Cross-Border Collaboration through Meaningful Exchange

Reflecting on the success of the programme, Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU, emphasised the broader significance of the initiative, noting that education at APU transcends geographical boundaries.

He highlighted that the vibrant exchange of ideas between APU’s academic team and Sri Lankan delegates reinforces the university’s commitment to regional development, adding that APU is honoured to be a preferred choice for Sri Lankan scholars and looks forward to deepening this meaningful partnership.

Adding to the reflections, Mr Gayan Rajapaksha, Chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Network of Sri Lanka and Trustee of the Commonwealth Alliance of Youth Workers Associations, highlighted the transformative nature of the collaboration, describing it as a platform that strengthens international academic synergy.

He acknowledged APU’s strong reputation in Sri Lanka, recognising it as one of the few Malaysian universities highly regarded and preferred by students, and emphasised that the collaboration extends beyond training to the development of future leaders through sustained cross-border engagement.

Building a Stronger Foundation for Future Collaboration

The programme underscored APU’s growing global relevance in the fields of psychology and education, where research, practice, and innovation intersect.

More importantly, it demonstrated how targeted academic initiatives can create meaningful, real-world impact across regions.

By fostering knowledge exchange and professional connections, the programme has laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration between Malaysia and Sri Lanka in advancing psychology, counselling, and education.