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CUHK concludes hosting of APAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition
Hong Kong’s academic excellence elevating the “Study in Hong Kong” brand globally
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) held the closing ceremony for the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year’s APAIE welcomed over 3,000 education leaders and experts from over 70 countries and regions, a record-breaking attendance. The exhibition gathered over 450 universities and organisations, alongside nearly 130 meetings and seminars, fostering in-depth discussions on the latest trends in higher education, cross-border collaboration, and talent exchange. The event not only highlighted Hong Kong’s academic strengths but also further promoted the “Study in Hong Kong” brand worldwide, reinforcing the city’s position as an international hub for post-secondary education.
During the ceremony, Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, expressed gratitude to the delegates for their participation. He said: “Over these past few days, the vibrancy of Hong Kong has served as the backdrop to countless meaningful conversations and new collaborations. Hong Kong stands at the crossroads of East and West, and distinguishes itself as a hub for academic excellence, research innovation and global partnership. With growing investment in infrastructure and talent attraction, our universities are committed to making Hong Kong a world-class hub for education for all. I hope you have gained a deeper appreciation of the tremendous opportunities available within Hong Kong’s higher education sector, whether through sessions showcasing our approaches to international education or through meaningful discussions with our local colleagues. May these experiences confirm to you once again the strengths and agility of universities in Hong Kong, as we explore innovative pedagogies, develop new models for global education, and build sustainable partnerships.”
Professor Venky Shankararaman, President of APAIE, delivered closing remarks: “Reflecting on the past days, APAIE 2026 has proved to perfectly embody the theme of ‘Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good’, utilising Hong Kong’s unique role as an international education hub to advance collective progress, innovation, and sustainable partnerships. Thank you to our lead host, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, along with the seven co-hosting universities, the University Grants Committee, and the Hong Kong SAR Government – this level of success would not have been possible without your unwavering support.”
At the closing ceremony, a flag handover ritual was held in which Professor Lo, representing this year’s host, returned the APAIE flag to Professor Shankararaman, who then passed it on to the next year’s host, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). Professor Mohd Shafry bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of UTM, said: “We are deeply honoured by the trust placed in us to host APAIE 2027 Conference and Exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The first time Malaysia hosted APAIE was in 2019 in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia was chosen once again because of our proven capacity to convene the region with professionalism, inclusivity, and cultural warmth, while serving as a dynamic platform for global academic exchange. Rooted in a rich tapestry of faith traditions that uphold the values of goodness, humility, and compassion, Malaysia’s strength lies not only in its intellectual capital, but also in its moral and spiritual foundations – a nation where wisdom and faith guide the pursuit of innovation and shared humanity. As Malaysia celebrates its 70th birthday in 2027, there is no better time to experience our world-class hospitality. We are preparing a vibrant and soul-stirring experience for every delegate. Come for the knowledge, stay for the festivities, and leave with partnerships and memories that will last a lifetime. With open hearts and great anticipation, we look forward to welcoming you to Malaysia for APAIE 2027!”
The five-day APAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition (23 – 27 February) successfully created new opportunities for collaboration between local and international higher education communities. Hosted by CUHK and co-hosted by the other seven University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities, the event is supported by the Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, UGC and Hong Kong Tourism Board. As a founding member of APAIE and the lead host of this year’s event, CUHK will continue to strengthen dialogue with global partners and looks forward to reconnecting in Malaysia next year, joining hands to advance global education through innovative ideas and partnerships.
For more information about APAIE 2026, please visit: https://apaie.net/conferences/apaie-2026
CUHK’s hosting of the APAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition concludes successfully. A flag handover ritual takes place during the closing ceremony.
From left: Professor Mohd Shafry bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; Professor Mohd Ariffin bin Abu Hassan, President-Elect of APAIE and Director of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia International; Professor Venky Shankararaman, President of APAIE, and Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK.
Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, delivers remarks.
Professor Venky Shankararaman, President of APAIE, delivers closing remarks.
Professor Mohd Shafry bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, the representative from next year’s host, Malaysia, delivers remarks.
