The Association of the Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that serves as a leading regional platform for collaboration among universities and higher education institutions across Asia and the Pacific. AUAP exists to strengthen connections between institutions, encourage meaningful partnerships, and represent the collective voice of universities and colleges in the region. Through its work, AUAP supports higher education leaders and institutions in addressing shared priorities, emerging challenges, and opportunities for sustainable development.
AUAP promotes cooperation by providing a structured space for dialogue, networking, and joint initiatives. It regularly organizes conferences, forums, seminars, and workshops that bring together university executives, academic leaders, faculty, and professional staff to exchange best practices and explore solutions to key issues affecting higher education today—such as educational quality, innovation, internationalization, and institutional development. These activities help institutions build capacity, improve systems, and respond more effectively to global and regional changes in education.
Mission and purpose
AUAP’s mission is grounded in advancing higher education as a force for progress in society. Its key missions include:
- Promoting a culture of quality and innovation in higher education, research, and community service
- Strengthening cooperation and partnership among universities and higher education institutions across the region
- Preserving and valuing cultural diversity in Asia and the Pacific, and encouraging mutual understanding and constructive collaboration
- Supporting socio-economic development and universal peace through education, research, and cross-border engagement
- Maintaining a platform for interaction among members and serving as a representative voice for universities in the region
AUAP is committed to being not only a networking body, but also a service-oriented association that helps institutions improve performance, expand opportunities, and create broader impact through collective action.
Programs and activities
AUAP organizes a wide range of programs that support institutional leadership, faculty development, and student empowerment.
For university leaders, faculty, and staff, AUAP conducts:
- Faculty development seminars and professional workshops to strengthen academic and administrative capacity
- Joint research activities and collaborative initiatives that encourage knowledge creation and innovation
- Faculty and staff exchange programs to expand experience, expertise, and international exposure
- Platforms for strategic discussion on higher education policy, quality assurance, and institutional improvement
For students, AUAP creates opportunities for learning, leadership, and regional engagement through:
- English speech competitions and student debates
- Student leadership training programs that develop confidence, teamwork, and global citizenship
- Student exchange programs that support cultural understanding and academic mobility
- Academic Olympiads and student-focused academic events that promote excellence and motivation
These activities are designed to develop both academic capability and real-world skills, helping students and staff become more effective contributors to their institutions and communities.
Quality and internationalization instruments
In addition to programs and events, AUAP has also been developing practical instruments to support institutional advancement. One focus has been creating tools that help institutions assess their readiness and capacity to undertake internationalization initiatives—supporting strategic planning and quality improvement.
AUAP is also preparing to unveil its Quality Assurance Instrument, which is intended to provide a structured approach for institutions to evaluate themselves and understand their strengths and areas for improvement. These instruments are designed to support both members and non-members, reflecting AUAP’s commitment to expanding the benefits of quality enhancement across the region.