More than 1,000 global higher education leaders are to convene at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 to explore the challenges, opportunities and key trends influencing the global higher education landscape.

Among the speakers is Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Republic of Indonesia Brian Yuliarto, who will deliver a keynote address.

Hosted in Bali by Bina Nusantara (BINUS) University, the event is organised by global higher education experts and higher education data company, QS Quacquarelli Symonds, and runs November 3-5.

With the theme of ‘Advancing Education for Purpose and Impact’, delegates will explore how internationalisation, workforce readiness and cross-border collaboration in Indonesia, APAC and beyond.

Between 2016 and 2026, Indonesia expanded its presence in the QS World University Rankings top 250 from none to two. Together with the progress of universities in neighbouring ASEAN countries, the region is already an emerging hub of talent and research excellence.

QS Global Flows data suggests that Asia is emerging as one of the principal beneficiaries of a divergence in global student movement. The QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 hopes to further build on this momentum.

Jessica Turner, CEO of QS Quacquarelli Symonds, said: “The Asia Pacific is home to some of the world’s most innovative universities which produce both outstanding research and students who have the skills they need to succeed after graduation.

“Our recent research has found that ASEAN universities are acquiring global visibility and that aligning skills with employment needs could lead to a £900 billion economic value boost by 2035. Leveraging higher education that drives impactful outcomes to students, society and the economy.

“As one of the world’s most populous countries, Indonesia is an ideal home for this year’s QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific. For all the region’s higher education strengths, scaling internationalisation and boosting research impact is the next challenge if universities are to match their respective ambitions. Transnational education offers a new way forward for innovative, aspirational partners and will likely be a key discussion point at the conference.

“This international summit will bring institutions together to forge mutually beneficial partnerships, expand opportunities for students and researchers, and advance their missions. Together, we will explore solutions to shared, persistent challenges and help shape a better future. We are delighted to work with our host, BINUS University, and our co-hosts to deliver this important gathering.”

President of BINUS Higher Education, Stephen Wahyudi Santoso, said:

“We are honoured to welcome higher education leaders from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond to Indonesia for the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026. As higher education continues to evolve, collaboration across institutions, industries, and borders is increasingly important in preparing future-ready graduates, advancing innovation, and addressing the evolving needs of society.

 

“At BINUS University, our vision of fostering and empowering the society in building and serving the nation reflects our belief that education should go beyond academic excellence to create meaningful impact for society. Through this summit, we look forward to exchanging perspectives, strengthening global partnerships, and working together to advance higher education that benefits students, communities, and future generations.”

Among the wide range of speakers are leaders from some of the world’s leading universities, including Singapore Management University, Nanyang Technological University, American University of Sharjah, Adelaide University, and University of Otago, among many others.

The event will address how innovation, AI, skills and cross-border collaboration are reshaping higher education, strengthening the region’s global influence and empowering students to create greater global impact.

The QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 will be held at Bali International Convention Center.

In addition, University Padjadjaran and the Education University of Hong Kong are co-hosts this year. To attend in-person or consult the full programme please visit: QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026