It is my great honour and privilege, on behalf of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), to warmly welcome all distinguished leaders, scholars, policymakers, and partners to the 38th AUAP Annual Conference, hosted by John Von Neumann University, Kecskemét, Hungary, in collaboration with AUAP, from 19th to 21st May, 2026.
The theme of this year’s conference – “Reimagining Higher Education in the Age of AI: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact for a Sustainable Future” – could not be timelier. As artificial intelligence reshapes the very foundations of knowledge creation, teaching, and learning, it is the collective responsibility of all of us leading academics in different corners of the World to ensure that innovation goes hand in hand with ethics, inclusion, and sustainability.
The conference will focus on four key areas:
- Crafting a Global Declaration on Ethical AI in Higher Education,
- Building Collaborative Frameworks for Inclusive Digital Transformation,
- Developing Policy Recommendations for Sustainable and Peace-Oriented Education, and
- Strengthening Networks for Research and Innovation Diplomacy.
Through these discussions, AUAP aims to lead the global higher education community in creating meaningful pathways that balance technological advancement with human values, ensuring that AI serves as a force for equity, peace, and progress.
As President of AUAP and Chancellor of Jagran Lakecity University, India, I take pride in seeing our collective mission of global academic collaboration move forward with such vigour and purpose. This conference is yet another milestone in strengthening the bonds between institutions, cultures, and communities.
I invite all serious academic practitioners to actively engage in dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing during this conference. Together, let us shape a future where higher education harnesses the power of AI not only to advance innovation but also to create a more inclusive and sustainable world.
I extend my deepest gratitude to John Von Neumann University for hosting this important event, and I look forward to the rich exchange of ideas that will emerge from this gathering.
Wishing all the best,
Shri Hari Mohan Gupta
President, Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP)
Chancellor, Jagran Lakecity University, India