AIUB Strengthens Global Engagement at QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 in Bali

American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) marked a productive first day at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026, held from November 3–5 at the Bali International Convention Centre, Indonesia. Under the theme “Advancing Education for Purpose and Impact,” the summit brings together higher education leaders, policymakers, and academic professionals from around the world to promote international collaboration and innovation. 

The AIUB delegation comprises Mr. Ishtiaque Abedin, Founder Member and Vice Chairman, BoT, and Secretary General APUB, Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, Former Vice Chancellor and Member, BoT, Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Mashiour Rahman, Director, Global Engagement and Ranking, Ms. Carlin Noelle Lamagna, Senior Assistant Professor, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) and Deputy Director, Office of Planning and Development (OPD), and Md. Abu Mia Akhanda, Head of Public Relations. AIUB participated as part of the Bangladesh Pavilion, alongside fellow private universities, including Daffodil International University (DIU), North South University (NSU), Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), and United International University (UIU), collectively showcasing Bangladesh's growing presence in international higher education. 

Following the opening ceremony, Ishtiaque Abedin and Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna attended the morning conference discussions focusing on the evolving higher education landscape and the importance of purposeful international engagement. Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam also participated in an afternoon academic session, gaining insights into emerging trends and challenges in higher education. 

In the early morning of day 1 of the summit, Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Vice President – Strategic and International Engagement, opened the Bangladesh pavilion in presence of the delegates from Bangladesh. A significant highlight of the day was the delegation's meeting with QS officials regarding preparations for an upcoming QS event in Bangladesh to be hosted by AIUB. The discussions provided an opportunity to strengthen institutional cooperation and explore future collaborative initiatives.

Throughout the day, the delegation actively engaged with representatives from universities and educational organizations across the region, exploring opportunities for academic partnerships, research collaboration, faculty and student exchanges, and potential Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). 

AIUB's participation reflects its continued commitment to expanding its international network, enhancing global visibility, and fostering meaningful academic partnerships that contribute to the advancement of higher education in Bangladesh and beyond.