APAIE 2026: Towards Partnerships for Global Good

This past February, staff members from SAF HQ and SAF Japan attended the APAIE 2026 Conference, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) holds one of Asia’s largest international conferences in the field of international education, bringing together university officials, policymakers, researchers, education-related companies, and non-profit organizations from around the world, with a primary focus on the Asia-Pacific region.

The 2026 conference, centered around the theme of "Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good," saw over 3,500 participants from 72 countries and regions, making it the largest in history and significantly surpassing last year’s attendance.

Participants from SAF

The following three members represented SAF at APAIE 2026:

Carol Carmody (Senior Associate Vice President, International Partner Development, IES Global / SAF Co-founder)
Brett Ramminger (Director, SAF Japan Office)
Natsuko Kambayashi (Assistant Director, SAF Japan Office)

SAF leadership with members of Kyoto University of Foreign Studies at APAIE 2026. — *Carol Carmody, Brett Rumminger and Natsuko Kambayashi (pictured in the middle) with university partners at APAIE 2026.*

Active Exchange with Universities and Related Institutions

During the event, the team held meetings with more than 30 universities (both sending and host institutions).

In these meetings, the latest study abroad stats and trends were shared, as well as recent program offerings at SAF ie. popular programs at IES Centers, study tours, and internships. It was a productive time characterized by concrete conversations aimed at strengthening future cooperation while aligning on the specific needs and challenges of each university.

Additionally, for universities not currently partnered with SAF, the team introduced the benefits of IES Global and SAF programs, specifically the access and support granted by joining two combined organizations. These meetings served as exciting first steps towards building new relationships.

Participation in Sessions and Networking

In addition to APAIE sessions which covered diverse themes in international education, the members actively participated in receptions and various networking events.

This provided a valuable opportunity to deepen ties with Japanese universities and related organizations, leading to information exchange and relationship-building.

One highlight: as the event took place shortly after the Lunar New Year, the streets of Hong Kong and the APAIE venue were filled with festivities.

香港で見たライオンダンス — *Lunar New Year parade on the streets of Hong Kong.*

Strengthening Cooperation in International Education

Amidst shifting international landscapes, APAIE 2026 served as a reminder of the growing importance of close collaboration between universities and international education organizations. Together, we must consider the most meaningful forms of study abroad and international education for every individual student.

SAF will continue to engage in dialogue with Japanese university officials to develop programs and strengthen support systems that align with each university’s policies and the diverse needs of their students.