2025-06-10 08:18
JvNU expands influence in Asia-Pacific
John von Neumann University of Kecskemét recently had the distinct honor of being a special guest at the annual General Assembly and Conference of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) in Manila. This significant event in the Philippines brought together representatives from 49 universities across 15 countries, spanning Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America. A notable highlight of this year's AUAP meeting, which celebrated its 30th anniversary, was the appointment of Norbert Csizmadia, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the John von Neumann University Foundation, as the organization's Global Goodwill Ambassador.
The annual gathering of Asian universities clearly demonstrated the region's strong openness to European cooperation in higher education. This collaborative spirit is vividly illustrated by the fact that the City of Kecskemét and John von Neumann University are slated to co-host the next international meeting and conference in May 2026. The AUAP (Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific) functions as a key international higher education organization, dedicated to fostering global cooperation among universities throughout the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as a vital platform, enabling its member institutions to exchange experiences, launch joint research programs, and advance both education and student mobility. Among the organization's primary activities are the organization of academic conferences and workshops, the facilitation of leadership training programs, and the execution of student competitions. These efforts are all geared towards nurturing international collaborations and partnerships, with a particular focus on integrating innovation and sustainability into educational practices across the continent.
This year, the core themes of the AUAP conference forums were remarkably current and relevant. Discussions and presentations, including "Extensive Networks: A Path Towards an Innovative, Cultural, and Sustainable Academic Environment" and "Promoting Global Sustainability by Aligning Institutions with Global Rankings and Certifications," drew in experts from all corners of the globe. Norbert Csizmadia, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the John von Neumann University Foundation, delivered an impactful opening address. He underscored the critical importance of education, knowledge, and technology, along with the convergence of interconnectedness, complexity, and sustainability. Dr. Csizmadia used maps to visually explain future megatrends and emphasized how universities must adapt to these new directions. The audience gained insight into John von Neumann University's accomplishments over the past year, and the Chairman also spoke passionately about the significance of international openness. The event's importance was further highlighted by John von Neumann University signing new cooperation agreements with several Asian universities, ranging from India and Malaysia to the Philippines. This expansion means the Kecskemét-based higher education institution will now be collaborating with a total of 13 new institutions.