Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening graduate competitiveness on the global stage through the hosting of an international Guest Lecture on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The event brought together the Master’s Programs in Primary Education (S2 Dikdas) and Social Science Education (S2 IPS), along with the undergraduate programs in English Education and Elementary School Teacher Education (PGSD). Held at UNIPMA’s Integrated Laboratory Building, the session was moderated by Dr. Sri Lestari, S.Pd., M.Pd.

The lecture, titled “English Proficiency and Curriculum Development: Promoting Impact and Relevance in Today’s Classroom,” featured Dr. Ma. Salome R. Magbanua, Program Coordinator of Teacher Education BSEd and NIA Coordinator from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU), Philippines.

In her presentation, Dr. Magbanua highlighted the importance of English proficiency as a core competency for teachers in today’s globalized era. She also emphasized the need for curriculum development that not only supports academic growth but also responds to evolving social dynamics and students’ current needs.

“Foreign language proficiency must be accompanied by adaptive curriculum innovation. Teachers must be active learners who stay attuned to the times,” Dr. Magbanua asserted before an audience of lecturers, students, and invited guests.

The session was also attended by leadership from the four participating study programs. Dr. Magbanua’s presence provided a valuable opportunity for the UNIPMA academic community to gain global perspectives in education and expand their international academic networks.

This event aligns with UNIPMA’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the goal of providing quality education. By addressing key issues surrounding curriculum innovation and language proficiency, the guest lecture aims to inspire new approaches to educator competency development.

Through cross-program collaboration and an international perspective, UNIPMA continues to demonstrate its dedication to producing professional educators who are not only academically proficient but also adaptive, innovative, and globally competitive.