Hong Kong, February 27, 2026 – The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition is in full swing at the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 3,000 participants from more than 70 countries and regions. This year’s event, running from February 23 to 27 under the inspiring theme Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good, marks the largest gathering in APAIE’s history and underscores the region’s growing influence in shaping inclusive, sustainable international education.
The conference opened with high energy on Monday, featuring pre-conference workshops and a warm welcome reception that coincided with the lively Chinese New Year atmosphere in Hong Kong. Education leaders, policymakers, university representatives, and industry experts have filled the halls with dynamic discussions on building meaningful collaborations that extend beyond borders for shared global benefits.
A standout moment came during the opening ceremony and keynote sessions, where speakers highlighted the transformative power of Asia-Pacific institutions in addressing worldwide challenges through education. Hong Kong’s Secretary for Education delivered an enthusiastic address, emphasising the city’s role as a premier hub for post-secondary learning and its commitment to fostering international dialogue.
Throughout the week, attendees have engaged in a packed program of plenary talks, concurrent sessions, and networking events. Key highlights so far include:
- Strategic leadership forums like the Presidents’ Programme, where senior university leaders exchange ideas on emerging trends in global higher education.
- Focused panels on inclusion, purpose-driven education, and leadership, with contributions from networks such as APRU featuring voices from across the region.
- A bustling exhibition space showcasing innovative programs, recruitment opportunities, and partnerships from institutions worldwide, including strong showings from Vietnam, Malaysia, and other Asia-Pacific players aiming to expand transnational collaborations.
Delegates have praised the event’s scale and relevance, with many noting fruitful one-on-one meetings and new partnership prospects. Vietnam’s national pavilion, for instance, has been a focal point, promoting its evolving higher education landscape and inviting joint ventures in research and student mobility.
As the conference moves into its final days, excitement builds for the closing ceremony and the official handover to Kuala Lumpur, which will host APAIE 2027 under the theme Humanity in the AI Age: Engaging Asia-Pacific Perspectives. This seamless transition reflects the ongoing momentum in the region toward forward-thinking, equitable international education.
For those following from afar, the buzz on social media with #APAIE2026 captures the spirit of connection and innovation unfolding in Hong Kong this week. Stay tuned for more insights as the event wraps up; APAIE 2026 is proving once again why it’s the must-attend gathering for anyone invested in the future of global learning.
