The University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) hosted the 2026 Asian Higher Education Planning Forum from 31 March to 2 April, bringing together nearly 60 representatives from leading institutions across Asia. Held under the theme “Transforming Higher Education in Asia: Innovation, Sustainability and Engagement – Continuing the Dialogue”, the forum provided a timely platform for dialogue as China enters a new phase under its 15th Five-Year Plan and Ningbo accelerates its higher education development. First staged in the Chinese mainland at Peking University in 2014, this marks the third time the forum has been hosted in the Chinese mainland, underscoring its growing regional significance.
In his opening address, Jonathan Garibaldi, Provost of UNNC, emphasised the urgency of collective action: “This forum is not only timely but also urgent. Higher education is confronting multiple challenges—from technological transformation and demographic shifts to a profound global reassessment of environmental and social responsibility. The future cannot be built by isolated institutions; solutions must emerge through collaboration across diverse communities.” He positioned UNNC as a “living laboratory” for advancing innovation, sustainability and collaboration through its distinctive Sino-foreign model.
Discussions over the three-day event explored key issues including AI-driven teaching innovation, university governance, and student-centred learning. Experts also examined how data-driven approaches can strengthen sustainable development strategies and how deeper collaboration between academia and industry can enhance institutional value and student outcomes.
The forum concluded with a shared vision for a more resilient and globally connected higher education sector in Asia. Closely aligned with its own strategic priorities, UNNC reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging international partnerships, advancing education–industry integration, and strengthening its role as a hub for innovation, talent development and global collaboration.
Published on 02 April 2026