This year the theme is

Human-AI Synergy
in Pedagogy

28 th – 29 th OCTOBER 2026

Universiti teknologi malaysia
johor bahru

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

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About NALI

Organized annually by UTM CDex, the New Academia Learning Innovation (NALI) events from 2018 to 2025 drive digital transformation in higher education. Evolving from blended learning frameworks to advanced artificial intelligence integration, NALI features expert keynotes, interactive knowledge-sharing workshops, and high-impact innovation competitions.

In NALI, educators and innovators showcase creative methodologies to be recognized through prestigious medals and awards. Recent editions heavily prioritize generative AI, alternative assessment ethics, and Open and Distance Learning (ODL). Ultimately, the NALI framework fosters an adaptive, globally competitive academic ecosystem, empowering modern educators to reshape traditional teaching philosophies through strategic, cutting-edge technological integration.

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Click this banner to view the list of NALI 2026 committee members
NALI 2026 Committee
Patron Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah binti Mat Darus
(Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic & International UTM)
Advisors

Prof. Madya Dr. Nurbiha binti A. Shukor

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sukri bin Saud

Chairman Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Azizul Azri bin Mustaffa
Co-Chairman Prof. Dr. Haslinda binti Mohamed Kamar
Secretary Pn. Noraini binti Khalid
Treasurer Pn. Nurul Aini binti A. Ghaffar

 

Invitations
and Protocol
Committee

En. Ahmad Najahalhayyi bin Zulkifli (Head)

Prof. Madya Dr. Noorminshah binti A.Iahad

Dr. Nurul Syakima binti Mohd Yusoff

Pn. Nor Syafiqka Amirah binti Othman

Promotion
and Publicity
Committee

En. Zul Azri bin A. Rahman (Head)

En. Raja Muhammad Fariz bin Raja Rohaizat Shah

Pn. Nurhidayah binti Reman

En. Muhamad ‘Isyq ‘Irfan Fani bin Rajab

Judging and
Awards
Committee

PM Dr. Mohd Nihra Haruzuan bin Mohamad Said (Head)

Ts. Dr. Johanna binti Ahmad

Ts. Dr. Azlin binti Abd. Jamil

Pn. Nurul Nazihah binti Ismail

Pn. Fatin Nabila binti Mohd Sharif

Publication
and
Proceedings Committee

Dr. Logaiswari Indiran (Head)

Dr. Yogeeswari Subramaniam

Dr. Umar Haiyat bin Abdul Kohar

Dr. Nor Emmy Shuhada binti Derani

PM Dr. Shathees Baskaran

Dr. Noraindah binti Abdullah Fahim

Speakers and
Workshops
Committee

Sr. Gs. Dr. Mohammad Zakri bin Tarmidi (Head)

Dr. Yap Soon Li

Cik Haslinda binti Daud

Pn. Mariyana binti Zainal

Logistics
and
Accommodation
Committee

Pn. Noor Yusnaini binti Yusoff (Head)

En. Faizal bin Buang

En. Halimi bin Ismail

Innovation
Competition
& Exhibition
Committee

Dr. Noraini binti Ibrahim (Head)

Dr. Muhammad Luqman bin Mohd Shafie

Cik Priscilla Prapagara

Pn. Shaeza binti Shazali

Systems and
Information
Technology
Committee

En. Mohamed Fairuz bin Dahalan (Head)

En. Radzuan bin Mohd Nor

Sponsorship
Committee

Pn. Nurliza binti Abd Rahman (Head)

Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Saiful Anuar bin Abu Bakar

Pn. Suziliyana binti Pungut

Pn. Nurul Aini binti A. Ghaffar

Certificates,
Souvenirs,
and Food
Committee

Pn. Nur Aidatul Faezah binti Abdul Rahim (Head)

Pn. Balqis binti Hashim

En. Mohd Rizal bin Haji Mahadi

Pn. Herda Liyana binti Mustafa

Technical and Equipment
Committee

En Mohd Harith Fadzillah bin Rasid (Head)

 

En. Halizan bin Hashim

 

En. Mohd Gaffar bin Said

En. Mohamad Nizam bin Ahmad

 

 

Click the banner to download our sponsorship packages details
NALI 2026 Sponsors

Official Sponsor

OpenLearning

EMERALD SPONSOR

This year the theme is 

Human-AI Synergy in Pedagogy

It redefines educational innovation by merging smart technology with human teaching expertise. This alliance creates adaptive, personalized learning experiences, boosting student engagement while ensuring digital tools complement rather than replace the empathy, critical thinking, and vital guidance of real-world human educators.

Just like the previous editions, you have the opportunity to join our signature events as follows:

NALI Workshop

NALI Award

(UTM Staff only)

Plenary & Keynote Session

NALI Educator Award

 (UTM staff only – by invitation)

Innovation Competition & Exhibition

Why Join NALI 2026?

Master Human-AI Synergy:

Learn to blend human empathy and critical thinking with AI capabilities to build the ultimate co-piloted classroom.

Future-Proof Assessments:

Discover how to design alternative assessments that evaluate genuine student competency rather than AI-assisted memorization.

Rapid Professional Upskilling:

Gain immediate, practical skills in generative AI and adaptive course design through hands-on knowledge-sharing workshops.

Network with EdTech Leaders:

Connect with a vibrant community of national educators, researchers, and tech pioneers to spark future collaborations.

Validate Your Innovations:

Showcase your teaching frameworks or edtech tools at the Innovation Competition to win prestigious Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals.

Earn Elite Recognition:

Boost your academic profile and gain institutional prestige through the high-profile Best of the Best Award.

Plenary Speaker

Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Binti Mat Darus
Deputy Vice-Chancellor
(Academic & International),
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

Keynote 2: Collective Intelligence Pedagogy: From AI Assistance to Agentic AI Ecosystems
Synopsis: Biography
As education stands at the brink of a new technological frontier, this keynote address unveils the next paradigm shift: Collective Intelligence Pedagogy. Moving beyond the limited scope of AI as a mere classroom assistant, the address explores the rise of “agentic” AI ecosystems—autonomous systems that actively collaborate with human intelligence. This visionary session challenges educators to rethink the traditional academic landscape, illustrating how AI can evolve into a dynamic, independent co-learning partner. By examining the deep synergy between human cognition and advanced multi-agent systems, this keynote provides a compelling roadmap for cultivating an empowered, highly interactive, and future-ready educational ecosystem.
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a leading expert in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and educational data analytics. As USM’s Digital Transformation Coordinator and a Microsoft Global Training Partner, he drives national digital initiatives, including transforming schools into Microsoft Showcase institutions. Currently, he is developing a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a “co-learning partner.” Additionally, he directs the national Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-empowered entrepreneurs. Internationally, he is a research fellow at Silicon Valley’s Social Media Research Foundation, blending academic rigor with visionary technological leadership.
Profile:<br />
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a leading expert in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and educational data analytics. As USM's Digital Transformation Coordinator and a Microsoft Global Training Partner, he drives national digital initiatives, including transforming schools into Microsoft Showcase institutions. Currently, he is developing a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a "co-learning partner." Additionally, he directs the national Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-empowered entrepreneurs. Internationally, he is a research fellow at Silicon Valley's Social Media Research Foundation, blending academic rigor with visionary technological leadership.<br />

Keynote Speaker 2

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin
Associate Professor,
School of Educational Studies,
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Plenary & Keynote Sessions

Prepare to be inspired by world-class perspectives that will challenge, empower, and reshape your future teaching philosophies. Our official speaker line-up and high-impact topics are currently being finalized and will be unveiled very soon. 

 

Stay connected and don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformation!

Plenary Session: When AI Can Think, What Should We Teach?
Synopsis: Biography
As generative AI transitions from simple automation to advanced reasoning, higher education faces a defining question: When machines can “think,” what is the purpose of a degree? This plenary explores the academic revolution triggered by artificial intelligence. It examines the urgent shift from testing knowledge retention to cultivating distinctly human competencies—critical judgment, ethical reasoning, and complex problem-solving. By redefining the educator’s role from information provider to intellectual guide, institutions can future-proof their curricula. Ultimately, the rise of thinking machines is not a threat to education, but a catalyst to teach what makes us profoundly human.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Binti Mat Darus is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) and a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). She earned her Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence Control and Automation from the University of Sheffield, UK, in 2004. Her research expertise encompasses artificial intelligence, robotics, active vibration control, system identification, and evolutionary algorithms. Throughout her career, she has secured numerous research grants and published extensively in indexed journals, contributing significantly to advancements in mechanical engineering and computational intelligence.
Keynote 1: Redesigning Authentic Evaluation in the Age of Intelligent Learners
Synopsis: Biography
Generative AI is fundamentally reshaping how learning should be assessed in higher education. This keynote examines the shift from traditional assessment towards more authentic, ethical, and human-centred approaches that preserve genuine evidence of student learning. It highlights the importance of contextualised tasks, critical judgement, process evidence, oral verification, and responsible AI integration, while aligning assessment with Values-Based Education (VBE), Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), and contemporary quality expectations. The central message is clear: the future of assessment is not about making assessment AI-proof, but about making it more meaningful, authentic, and distinctly human.
Professor Ts. Dr. Syamsul Nor Azlan Mohamad is the Director of the Academic Assessment and Evaluation Division at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). He holds a PhD in Education and a master’s degree in Educational Technology. His expertise includes curriculum development, e-portfolios, alternative assessment, learning analytics, and predictive analytics. He leads institutional initiatives to strengthen the quality, integrity, and flexibility of student assessment. He has also contributed to the Malaysian Qualifications Agency as an expert panel member, reviewer, standards writer, and evaluator. His achievements include the UiTM Academic Award for Teaching in 2019 and Best Speaker in 2022. He champions innovation.

Keynote Speaker 1

Prof. Ts. Dr. Syamsul Nor Azlan Bin Mohamad
Director, Academic Assessment & Evaluation Division,
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)

Tab on the image below
to download / view
Programme Schedule

Plenary & Keynote Sessions

Prepare to be inspired by world-class perspectives that will challenge, empower, and reshape your future teaching philosophies. Our official speaker line-up and high-impact topics are currently being finalized and will be unveiled very soon. 

 

Stay connected and don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformation!

Plenary Session
When AI Can Think, What Should We Teach?

Plenary Speaker

Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Binti Mat Darus

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International),
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

Synopsis: Biography
As generative AI transitions from simple automation to advanced reasoning, higher education faces a defining question: When machines can “think,” what is the purpose of a degree? This plenary explores the academic revolution triggered by artificial intelligence. It examines the urgent shift from testing knowledge retention to cultivating distinctly human competencies—critical judgment, ethical reasoning, and complex problem-solving. By redefining the educator’s role from information provider to intellectual guide, institutions can future-proof their curricula. Ultimately, the rise of thinking machines is not a threat to education, but a catalyst to teach what makes us profoundly human.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Binti Mat Darus is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) and a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). She earned her Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence Control and Automation from the University of Sheffield, UK, in 2004. Her research expertise encompasses artificial intelligence, robotics, active vibration control, system identification, and evolutionary algorithms. Throughout her career, she has secured numerous research grants and published extensively in indexed journals, contributing significantly to advancements in mechanical engineering and computational intelligence.
 

Keynote 1 :

Redesigning Authentic Evaluation in the Age of Intelligent Learners

Keynote Speaker 1

Prof. Ts. Dr. Syamsul Nor Azlan Bin Mohamad

Director, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)

Synopsis: Biography
Generative AI is fundamentally reshaping how learning should be assessed in higher education. This keynote examines the shift from traditional assessment towards more authentic, ethical, and human-centred approaches that preserve genuine evidence of student learning. It highlights the importance of contextualised tasks, critical judgement, process evidence, oral verification, and responsible AI integration, while aligning assessment with Values-Based Education (VBE), Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), and contemporary quality expectations. The central message is clear: the future of assessment is not about making assessment AI-proof, but about making it more meaningful, authentic, and distinctly human.
Professor Ts. Dr. Syamsul Nor Azlan Mohamad is the Director of the Academic Assessment and Evaluation Division at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). He holds a PhD in Education and a master’s degree in Educational Technology. His expertise includes curriculum development, e-portfolios, alternative assessment, learning analytics, and predictive analytics. He leads institutional initiatives to strengthen the quality, integrity, and flexibility of student assessment. He has also contributed to the Malaysian Qualifications Agency as an expert panel member, reviewer, standards writer, and evaluator. His achievements include the UiTM Academic Award for Teaching in 2019 and Best Speaker in 2022. He champions innovation.

Keynote 2 :

Collective Intelligence Pedagogy: From AI Assistance to Agentic AI Ecosystems
Profile:<br />
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a leading expert in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and educational data analytics. As USM's Digital Transformation Coordinator and a Microsoft Global Training Partner, he drives national digital initiatives, including transforming schools into Microsoft Showcase institutions. Currently, he is developing a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a "co-learning partner." Additionally, he directs the national Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-empowered entrepreneurs. Internationally, he is a research fellow at Silicon Valley's Social Media Research Foundation, blending academic rigor with visionary technological leadership.<br />

Keynote Speaker 2

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin

Associate Professor,
School of Educational Studies,
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Synopsis: Biography
As education stands at the brink of a new technological frontier, this keynote address unveils the next paradigm shift: Collective Intelligence Pedagogy. Moving beyond the limited scope of AI as a mere classroom assistant, the address explores the rise of “agentic” AI ecosystems—autonomous systems that actively collaborate with human intelligence. This visionary session challenges educators to rethink the traditional academic landscape, illustrating how AI can evolve into a dynamic, independent co-learning partner. By examining the deep synergy between human cognition and advanced multi-agent systems, this keynote provides a compelling roadmap for cultivating an empowered, highly interactive, and future-ready educational ecosystem.
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a leading expert in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and educational data analytics. As USM’s Digital Transformation Coordinator and a Microsoft Global Training Partner, he drives national digital initiatives, including transforming schools into Microsoft Showcase institutions. Currently, he is developing a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a “co-learning partner.” Additionally, he directs the national Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-empowered entrepreneurs. Internationally, he is a research fellow at Silicon Valley’s Social Media Research Foundation, blending academic rigor with visionary technological leadership.
Programme Schedule

28 OCTOBER 2026

day 01
Time
Activity

8.30 am
9.00 am

10.00 am 

 

 

11.00 am
12.30 pm
2.00 pm
4.30 pm

Registration
Arrival of Honourable Guests
Officiating Speech
Montage Presentation
Visit to Exhibition Booths
Plenary Session
Speaker: Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Binti Mat Darus
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International)
Universiti teknologi malaysia

Workshop 1 / Keynote Session 1
Rest
Innovation Competition Judging
NALI 2026 Adjourned

day 02

29 OCTOBER 2026

Time

Activity

9.00 am
9.30 am
10.30 am
11.30 am
2.30 pm

4.30 pm

Registration
Keynote Session 2
Workshop 2 / industry sharing session
Rest
Closing Ceremony
Announcement of Winners
NALI 2026 Closed

Workshop Speaker 1

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Norasri Bin Ismail
Associate Professor, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology,
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)

NALI Workshop

Ready to master the future of education? Join the NALI 2026 Workshops to explore Human-AI Synergy in Pedagogy. Gain practical, hands-on skills with generative AI tools, design adaptive course materials, and transform your classroom strategies. 

Don’t miss this prime opportunity to upskill. Secure your seat today!

Workshop 1: AI-Enhanced Pedagogy for Assessment: Rethinking Assessment in the Age of Generative A.I.
SynopsisBiography
Generative AI is rapidly making traditional assignments obsolete as reliable measures of student comprehension. This workshop equips educators with practical strategies to shift from merely grading final products to evaluating the entire learning process. Moving beyond theoretical debate, we focus on practical pedagogical shifts: prioritizing process over product, testing knowledge transfer, and integrating responsible AI use into your assessment criteria. Participants will explore frameworks for designing AI-resilient assessments and actively transform an existing assignments to prioritize critical thinking, methodology, and authentic knowledge transfer over mere fluency.
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin is a distinguished USM academic specializing in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and Social Network Analysis. Serving as Digital Transformation Coordinator, he is a certified Microsoft Global Training Partner and ISTE expert. He leads high-impact national initiatives, including guiding schools toward Microsoft Showcase School status and directing the Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-powered digital entrepreneurs. Currently, he is spearheading a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a “co-learning partner.” His international expertise is further highlighted by his role as a research fellow at the Social Media Research Foundation in Silicon Valley.
Workshop 2: Human-in-the-Loop Pedagogy: Making Better Teaching Decisions with AI
Synopsis: Biography
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in higher education, educators are faced with a new challenge: deciding when to rely on AI and when human judgement must remain central. This seminar explores the concept of Human-in-the-Loop Pedagogy, where AI is used to support, inform, and enhance teaching decisions without replacing the educator’s professional expertise. Participants will examine how AI can assist in areas such as lesson preparation, feedback, content adaptation, learning support, and academic decision-making while maintaining human oversight, contextual understanding, and accountability. The session will also highlight the importance of critically evaluating AI-generated suggestions, recognising limitations such as bias and hallucination, and knowing when educators should intervene, verify, or override AI outputs. Through practical examples, the seminar encourages educators to move beyond simply using AI tools towards developing a thoughtful and balanced Human–AI partnership in teaching and learning.
A chemical engineering education and technical training professional with over 9 years of experience in higher education, engineering-related teaching, and structured learning delivery. Has supported teaching and learning initiatives related to Outcome-Based Education (OBE), constructive alignment, assessment alignment, CQI documentation, and accreditation support for EAC/ETAC engineering programmes. Also involved in academic workshops, curriculum-related documentation, and STEM learning activity development. Has developed a focused interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in productivity and content workflows, exploring how these tools can support teaching, learning, research and daily work processes since 2022. In recent years, has begun sharing and introducing AI concepts through informal sessions,demonstrations, and practical use cases, with an emphasis on simple, applicable, and beginner-friendly approaches rather than advanced technical implementation. She also delivers technical training in engineering technical drawing and process simulation, and provides personal coaching to help learners and professionals build practical technical and digital skills. Known for a clear and structured teaching style, with the ability to connect engineering thinking with practical AI applications, making new tools easier to understand and apply in real contexts.

Workshop Speaker 2

Dr. Nor Nabiha Md Zan
Accredited HRD Corp Trainer & Consultant
Chemsynth Solutions

 

NALI Workshop

Ready to master the future of education? Join the NALI 2026 Workshops to explore Human-AI Synergy in Pedagogy. Gain practical, hands-on skills with generative AI tools, design adaptive course materials, and transform your classroom strategies. 

Don’t miss this prime opportunity to upskill. Secure your seat today!

Workshop 1 :

AI-Enhanced Pedagogy for Assessment: Rethinking Assessment in the Age of Generative A.I.

Workshop Speaker 1

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Norasri Bin Ismail

Associate Professor, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology,
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)

SynopsisBiography
Generative AI is rapidly making traditional assignments obsolete as reliable measures of student comprehension. This workshop equips educators with practical strategies to shift from merely grading final products to evaluating the entire learning process. Moving beyond theoretical debate, we focus on practical pedagogical shifts: prioritizing process over product, testing knowledge transfer, and integrating responsible AI use into your assessment criteria. Participants will explore frameworks for designing AI-resilient assessments and actively transform an existing assignments to prioritize critical thinking, methodology, and authentic knowledge transfer over mere fluency.
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ali Samsudin is a distinguished USM academic specializing in Human-AI Synergy, Digital STEM Learning, and Social Network Analysis. Serving as Digital Transformation Coordinator, he is a certified Microsoft Global Training Partner and ISTE expert. He leads high-impact national initiatives, including guiding schools toward Microsoft Showcase School status and directing the Microsoft 2026 Bootcamp Challenge to cultivate AI-powered digital entrepreneurs. Currently, he is spearheading a national Generative AI learning module that positions AI as a “co-learning partner.” His international expertise is further highlighted by his role as a research fellow at the Social Media Research Foundation in Silicon Valley.

Workshop 2 :

Human-in-the-Loop Pedagogy: Making Better Teaching Decisions with AI

Workshop Speaker 2

Dr. Nor Nabiha Md Zan
Accredited HRD Corp Trainer & Consultant
Chemsynth Solutions

 

Synopsis: Biography
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in higher education, educators are faced with a new challenge: deciding when to rely on AI and when human judgement must remain central. This seminar explores the concept of Human-in-the-Loop Pedagogy, where AI is used to support, inform, and enhance teaching decisions without replacing the educator’s professional expertise. Participants will examine how AI can assist in areas such as lesson preparation, feedback, content adaptation, learning support, and academic decision-making while maintaining human oversight, contextual understanding, and accountability. The session will also highlight the importance of critically evaluating AI-generated suggestions, recognising limitations such as bias and hallucination, and knowing when educators should intervene, verify, or override AI outputs. Through practical examples, the seminar encourages educators to move beyond simply using AI tools towards developing a thoughtful and balanced Human–AI partnership in teaching and learning.
A chemical engineering education and technical training professional with over 9 years of experience in higher education, engineering-related teaching, and structured learning delivery. Has supported teaching and learning initiatives related to Outcome-Based Education (OBE), constructive alignment, assessment alignment, CQI documentation, and accreditation support for EAC/ETAC engineering programmes. Also involved in academic workshops, curriculum-related documentation, and STEM learning activity development. Has developed a focused interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in productivity and content workflows, exploring how these tools can support teaching, learning, research and daily work processes since 2022. In recent years, has begun sharing and introducing AI concepts through informal sessions,demonstrations, and practical use cases, with an emphasis on simple, applicable, and beginner-friendly approaches rather than advanced technical implementation. She also delivers technical training in engineering technical drawing and process simulation, and provides personal coaching to help learners and professionals build practical technical and digital skills. Known for a clear and structured teaching style, with the ability to connect engineering thinking with practical AI applications, making new tools easier to understand and apply in real contexts.

Innovation Competition & Exhibition

Event Overview

The NALI 2026 Innovation Competition and Exhibition provides a platform for educators, researchers, students, industry practitioners and educational innovators to showcase impactful innovations in teaching, learning and assessment.

Aligned with the NALI 2026 overarching theme,  “Human-AI Synergy in Pedagogy”  the competition welcomes educational practices, projects, products, technologies and learning solutions that demonstrate originality, pedagogical value, practical applicability and measurable educational impact.

Participants may submit an innovation in the form of a:

  • Practice:  An innovative teaching, learning or assessment practice that improves the educational experience or learning outcomes.
  • Project:  A structured educational initiative, intervention or programme addressing an identified teaching or learning need.
  • Product:  A tangible or digital educational resource, application, platform, tool, module or technology developed based on sound pedagogical principles.
Eligibility & Competition Categories
Eligibility

The competition is open to educators, researchers, students, educational institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, industries and other individuals or teams involved in educational innovation.

Competition Categories

Submissions should address at least one of the following five competition categories:

1. Innovation in Pedagogy, Assessment and Curriculum Design
2. Artificial Intelligence-Enhanced Teaching and Learning
3. Digital, Immersive, and Flexible Learning Ecosystem
4. Inclusive and Accessible Digital Education
5. Lifelong Learning 

Category 1: Innovation in Pedagogy and Assessment
This category recognises innovative approaches that improve teaching practices, learning experiences and assessment processes. Relevant innovations may include:

  • Innovative pedagogical models and instructional strategies
  • Student-centred, collaborative or experiential learning
  • Authentic, alternative and competency-based assessment
  • Digital assessment and feedback approaches
  • Approaches that strengthen academic integrity
  • Innovative curriculum and course design
  • Evidence-based improvements in student engagement and achievement

Category 2: AI-Enhanced Teaching and Learning
This category focuses on the responsible and human-centred application of artificial intelligence to enhance teaching, learning and assessment. Relevant innovations may include:

  • Generative AI applications for teaching and learning
  • AI-powered educational chatbots and intelligent tutoring systems
  • Adaptive and personalised learning
  • AI-supported assessment and feedback
  • Learning analytics and predictive systems
  • AI literacy and responsible AI education
  • Ethical, transparent and inclusive use of AI
  • Human-AI collaboration in educational practice

Category 3: Digital, Immersive and Flexible Learning Ecosystems
This category recognises digital environments and flexible learning models that enable engaging learning across different locations, platforms and modes of delivery. Relevant innovations may include:

  • Blended, hybrid and online learning
  • Open and Distance Learning
  • Virtual, augmented and mixed reality
  • Simulations, virtual laboratories and immersive learning
  • Digital learning platforms and ecosystems
  • MOOCs, micro-credentials and stackable learning pathways
  • Flexible and personalised learning models
  • Technology-supported collaborative learning environments

Category 4: Inclusive and Accessible Digital Education
This category focuses on innovations that ensure equitable access to meaningful and high-quality educational experiences. Relevant innovations may include:

  • Universal Design for Learning
  • Assistive and accessible educational technologies
  • Inclusive learning resources and assessment practices
  • Learning solutions for students with diverse abilities and needs
  • Low-bandwidth and mobile-friendly learning solutions
  • Multilingual and culturally responsive education
  • Initiatives that reduce the digital divide
  • Educational solutions for underserved or marginalised communities

Category 5: Lifelong Learning
This category recognises innovations that support continuous learning, professional development, upskilling and reskilling across different stages of life and employment. Relevant innovations may include:

  • Professional and continuing education
  • Workforce upskilling and reskilling
  • Industry-based and work-integrated learning
  • Community and adult education
  • Short courses, micro-credentials and professional certifications
  • Recognition of prior learning
  • Flexible and stackable learning pathways
  • Personalised learning for career and professional development
Participation and Submission Guidelines
Project Originality and Enhancement

Submitted innovations should demonstrate originality and a clear contribution to educational practice. Projects previously entered in other competitions, including earlier NALI events, may be resubmitted only if they incorporate substantial enhancements, new features or clearly differentiated improvements.

Individual and Team Participation

Participants may submit entries individually or as part of a team, including teams comprising members from different institutions. Multiple submissions are permitted; however, each innovation must be registered separately and is subject to an individual registration fee.

Author Limit

Each submission may include a maximum of ten authors. Names listed beyond the tenth author will not be included in the official NALI 2026 conference proceedings.

Extended Abstract Requirements

Each submission must be accompanied by a three- to four-page extended abstract, inclusive of references and acknowledgements. The abstract must be written in English and prepared using the official Extended Abstract Template.

Mode of Presentation

All presentations must be delivered physically at the event venue. Virtual or online presentations will not be accepted. Recommended to print A1-size poster. Poster Template

Registration Fees and Key Deadlines

Registration will be considered complete only after the participant clicks “Submit”. Entries saved as “Draft” will not be accepted. Participants must also upload the following three required documents: the Extended Abstract, Project Poster and Proof of Payment.

Registration Type Timeline (2026) Fee per Entry
Early Bird 20 July – 3 August RM 300.00
Normal Price 4 August – 15 September RM 350.00
Cancellation and Refund Guidelines

Voluntary Withdrawal
Requests submitted to nali@utm.my by 1st September 2026 are eligible for a 50% refund.

Incomplete Registration
Disqualified entries due to incomplete registration may receive an 80% refund if payment has been processed.

Non-Attendance
Participants who do not attend the physical exhibition without prior notice will not receive a refund.

Judging and Presentation

  • Judging will take place at the exhibition booths on 28 October 2026, from 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Each entry will be assessed by at least two judges.
  • Presenters will have seven minutes to pitch their innovation, followed by a three minutes question-and-answer session.
  • Each booth will be provided with one table, two chairs, one display board and one extension socket. Participants are required to bring a printed A1-size poster.
  • Participants must print and display the official project poster at their own expense. Supporting materials, such as brochures, demonstration items and certificates, are encouraged. Poster Template
Judging Procedures and Evaluation Criteria

Judging will be conducted at the exhibition booths on 28 October 2026, from 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Each entry will be assessed by at least two judges through a seven-minutes presentation followed by a three-minutes Q&A session.

Participants must print and display the official poster, highlighting the project objectives, novelty, innovation and relevance to NALI. Supporting materials are encouraged.

  • Please ensure that your poster is displayed at the assigned booth by the morning of 28 October 2026 and remains on display until the end of the event on 29 October 2026. At least one team representative must be present at the booth throughout both days to present the innovation and engage with visitors.

Evaluation Rubrics

Each innovation will be assessed according to the following criteria and corresponding weightage:

1. Extended Abstract (10%)
Clearly and concisely presents the subject, context and background of the project, with a coherent link to its purpose and investigation.

2. Poster (15%)
Demonstrates excellence in visual design, layout, organisation, content clarity and overall presentation.

3. Novelty (10%)
Demonstrates original ideas that extend beyond existing practices and are presented in distinctive and meaningful ways.

4. Creativity (10%)
Shows imaginative and well-designed ideas that introduce new perspectives to teaching and learning.

5. Innovativeness (10%)
Demonstrates significant improvements or transformations to conventional teaching and learning practices, resulting in a novel educational experience.

6. Applicability (10%)
Provides evidence of effectiveness, practicality and consistent application of relevant NALI learning approaches, methods or materials.

7. Impact on Student Learning (20%)
Demonstrates significant and sustainable improvements in student engagement, empowerment or learning outcomes, supported by systematic evidence or measurement.

8. Presentation (15%)
Communicates the project clearly, accurately and confidently, with effective delivery, appropriate pacing, audience engagement and suitable presentation aids.

    Awards and Recognition

    Based on the final scores awarded according to the evaluation rubric, eligible innovations will receive one of the following awards:

    • Gold Medal
    • Silver Medal
    • Bronze Medal

    Entries that do not meet the minimum award threshold will receive a Certificate of Participation.

    Outstanding Gold Medal recipients will also be considered for the prestigious NALI Best of the Best Award. All decisions made by the judging panel are final.

    NalI Award

    Open to all UTM staff

    NALI Award recognizes and celebrates educators who have made significant contributions in the field of education through innovative teaching practices and approaches. This award honours individuals or teams that have demonstrated creativity, ingenuity, and forward-thinking in revolutionizing the way students learn and engage with educational content.

     

    Criteria

    This award is open to all UTM staff.

    Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

    1. NALI-Driven
    The submission must demonstrate the application of New Academia Learning Innovation (NALI) principles in enhancing teaching and learning.

    2. Outstanding Achievement
    The submission should demonstrate outstanding achievements or a proven track record, such as:
    •⁠ ⁠Awards
    •⁠ ⁠Medals
    •⁠ ⁠Research or innovation grants
    •⁠ ⁠Publications

    Participation and achievements in other teaching and learning competitions will also be taken into consideration.

    3. Submission Category
    The submission must fall under one of the following categories:

    + Practice
    A transformative teaching practice that enhances student engagement and learning outcomes.

    + Project
    A student-centred project that creates an authentic, experiential, and immersive learning environment.

    + Product
    An innovative learning material or educational product developed based on sound pedagogical principles that:
    •⁠ ⁠Enhances learning and teaching;
    •⁠ ⁠Integrates appropriate technologies; and
    •⁠ ⁠Incorporates elements of Higher Education 4.0.

    4. Evidence of Implementation
    The submitted Practice, Project, or Product must have been implemented for a minimum of *two (2) semesters* and be supported by evidence demonstrating:
    •⁠ ⁠Effectiveness;
    •⁠ ⁠Impact on student learning;
    •⁠ ⁠Student or stakeholder feedback (where applicable); and
    •⁠ ⁠Continuous quality improvement.

    5. Submission Compliance
    Only complete submissions that fulfil all award requirements will proceed to the evaluation stage. The Organising Committee reserves the right to reject incomplete, inaccurate, or non-compliant submissions without further review.

    • Please be informed that your application only needs to be submitted through the system. No physical presentation is required.
    • During the NALI event on 28–29 October, you are warmly invited to attend and support the event.
    • The winners will be announced during the Closing Ceremony on 29 October 2026 to receive their awards.

    6. How to Register
    To submit your application, simply follow the step-by-step registration guide provided in the instructional video below.

    NalI Educator Award

    Open to all UTM staff ( by invitation )

    NALI Educator Award is a recognition that celebrates excellence in education and acknowledges educators who have made significant contributions to the field of teaching and learning. This award honours individuals that displayed a passion for their subject matter, an understanding of pedagogy, and fostering a love for learning and instilling lifelong skills as a teacher.

    Candidates for the NALI Educator Award are evaluated based on various criteria, including their impact on student learning outcomes, their ability to adapt teaching methods to different learning styles and needs, their use of innovative approaches and technologies, and their contributions to the overall improvement of education.

    Criteria

    This award is for invited UTM staff only
    (the award is strictly for UTM staff members who have received an invitation)

    We look for participation that has the following criteria:

    • NALI Driven 
    • Outstanding achievement or track record (Awards / Medals/ Grants/ Publications)
    • Track records from participation in other teaching and learning competitions will also be considered.
    • It can be a Practice/Project/Product:
    • Practice-Transformative Teaching that results in improved student
      engagement and achievement in learning.
    • Project-Student centered project that implements authentic/immersive
      learning environment.

    Product-An innovative output of learning materials based on good pedagogical principles for improved student learning.

    • Has impact on learning and teaching
    • Integrates technology
    • Incorporates elements of Higher Education 4.0
    NALI Educator Award Finalist 2026
    🌟 Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Sharifah Rafidah binti Wan Alwi (FKT)
    🌟 Prof. Madya Ts. Sr. Dr. Nurul Hazrina binti Idris (FABU)
    🌟 Prof. Ts. Dr. Maslin binti Masrom (FAI)
    🌟 Dr. Farkhana binti Muchtar (FC)
    🌟 Dr. Nina Diana binti Nawi (FEST)
    🌟 Dr. Norelyza binti Hussein (FKA)
    🌟 Dr. Siti Zaleha binti Omain (FM)
    🌟 Dr. Nor Ain binti Husein (FS)
    🌟 Dr. Muhammad Talhah bin Jima’ain (FSSH)

    IMPORTANT DATES

    Nali Award

    Open submission

    20 july 2026

    Submission Deadline

    15 september 2026

    Innovation Competition & Exhibition

    Registration Open

    20 july 2026

    Registration Deadline (early bird)

    3 august 2026

    Final Registration Deadline

    15 september 2026

    NALI 2026 Event

    28 - 29 October 2026

    Save

    The Date

    Locations

    Event Venue

    UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA

    Accommodation

    Nearest Hotels

    to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

    SCHOLAR’S INN UTM

    SCHOLAR’S INN UTM
    Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
    81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor.

    Location Map

    07-553 5197
    07-553 6695

    WhatsApp : 601119785181

    scholarsinn@utm.my

    U-HOTEL

    34, 34-01, Jalan Kebudayaan 5,
    Taman Universiti,
    81300 Skudai, Johor.

    Location Map

    07-521 1366

    HOTEL AUSTIN PARADISE (BRANCH)

    No. 75, 77 & 79, Jalan Pulai 7,
    Taman Pulai Utama,
    81300 Skudai, Johor

    Location Map

    07-5206888
    07-5201888

    GRAND PARAGON HOTEL

    18, Jalan Harimau,
    Taman Century
    80250 Johor Bahru, Johor

    Location Map

    07-268 5222
    07-268 5222
    07-268 5331

    resv@grandparagonhotel.com.my

    IMPIANA HOTEL SENAI

    Jalan Impiana Senai Utama 2,
    Taman Impian Senai, 81400 Senai, Johor

    Location Map

    60 7-521 2121

    enquiry@pulaisprings.com

    APOLLO HOTEL

    No. 30 & 32 Jalan Kebudayaan 5,
    Taman Universiti
    81300 Skudai, Johor

    Location Map

    07-520 3688

    KSL RESORT JOHOR BAHRU

    33 Jalan Seladang, Taman Abad,
    80250 Johor Bahru,
    Malaysia

    Location Map

    GOODHOPE HOTEL

    No. 1, Jalan Ronggeng 5,
    Taman Skudai Baru
    Skudai, Johor Bahru
    81300 Johor

    Location Map

    07-557282

    reservation@goodhopehotel.com.my

    Special Mentions

    UNI-TECHNOLOGIES Sdn Bhd (UTSB)

    Guan Hwa Auto Enterprise

    CONTACT US

    General Enquiry

    Pn. Noraini Khalid

    E-Mail: nali@utm.my

    NALI Award Enquiry

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Nihra Haruzuan Mohamad Said

    E-Mail: nihra@utm.my

    Innovation Competition & Exhibition Enquiry

    Dr. Noraini Ibrahim

    UTM Open Day