The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) Conference and Exhibition is set to return in 2026, this time heading to the dynamic city of Hong Kong from 23 to 27 February. As one of the most significant events in the international higher education calendar, APAIE 2026 is expected to draw over 2,500 delegates from more than 65 countries—making it a truly global gathering of thought leaders, policy makers, academics, and industry professionals.
Hosted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), a founding member of APAIE, the conference marks a significant moment in the evolution of international education in the region. CUHK previously hosted the conference in 2013, when 1,250 delegates attended. Now, more than a decade later, APAIE returns to a city that has firmly established itself as a global education hub.
The theme for APAIE 2026 is Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good. The program promises to be forward-thinking and inclusive, fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among higher education institutions from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. Attendees can expect a wide range of sessions that explore how regional cooperation can drive global outcomes in sustainability, academic quality, student mobility, digital innovation, and institutional partnerships.
Hong Kong’s selection as the host city is no coincidence. Over the past decade, it has become a beacon of academic excellence and innovation. Five of its universities are ranked among the world’s top 100, and the city continues to attract students, researchers, and scholars from around the globe. Its cosmopolitan character, strategic location in Asia, and strong support for research and development have made it a natural centre for international education dialogue.
In a message inviting delegates to Hong Kong, Professor Venky Shankararaman, President of APAIE, emphasised the importance of mutual sharing and sustainable partnerships in a post-pandemic world. “It is a privilege to be part of such a diverse region, with its array of cultures, histories, perspectives, and experiences. We are honoured to have the opportunity to share this richness with you through the annual APAIE conference and exhibition, he said.
Beyond the formal sessions, APAIE 2026 offers ample opportunities for networking, professional development, and exploring new institutional collaborations. The conference also serves as a platform for universities to showcase their programs, forge mobility agreements, and strengthen research ties across borders.
Proposals for conference sessions are now open and will close on 24 June 2025. Institutions and individuals involved in international education are encouraged to submit session proposals that align with the 2026 theme and address pressing global challenges. With the deadline fast approaching, now is the time to prepare innovative session ideas that can contribute to shaping the global higher education landscape.
For those planning to attend or present, APAIE 2026 offers not only professional enrichment but also the chance to experience one of Asia’s most exciting cities. With its blend of tradition and innovation, Hong Kong promises a memorable backdrop for shaping the future of international higher education.
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