The FY2023 Board of Directors’ Meeting of the Asia Professional Education Network (APEN) and the General Assembly Seminar, which took place on October 30th and 31st, 2023, at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Kuala Lumpur, was a resounding success. This annual event attracted influential educational leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss key issues and advancements in professional education. The agenda was packed with engaging discussions and updates, including an address by the Chairperson, an address by UTM (host), self-introductions of participants, and discussions on critical topics such as new project initiatives, outreach to other regions, and outreach to research institutions. The event aimed to strengthen ties among its entities and foster educational advancements in the region.
Established on June 6th, 2011, APEN, short for The Asia Professional Education Network, is a global network encompassing various entities, such as universities, research institutions, governmental agencies, and private companies. The primary objective of APEN is to enhance collaboration among organizations with professional education systems, with a special focus on Project Based Learning (PBL). APEN’s mission is to build an industrial community in Asia that contributes to social well-being. This Board of Directors’ Meeting and General Assembly Seminar served as a platform to further the organization’s goals of facilitating cooperation and innovation among its members.
The Secretariat service, crucial to managing APEN’s vital functions, was diligently provided by the Advanced Institute of Industrial Technology (AIIT). The Secretariat played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of APEN, collaborating with the Directors of APEN, the Chairperson, and the Secretary General of APEN. Each of these directors represented a Country Chapter of APEN, forming a comprehensive network that fosters educational advancements throughout the region.
Distinguished figures from various Country Chapters of APEN participated in the FY2023 Board of Directors’ Meeting and General Assembly Seminar, bringing their expertise and insights to the table. Notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Hiroshi Hashimoto, Chairperson of APEN; Prof. Mitsuhiro Maeda, Secretary General of APEN; Prof. Dr. Mohd Naz’ri Mahrin, Chairperson of Malaysia Chapter of APEN; Prof. Dr. Alvin Culaba, Chairperson of Philippine Chapter of APEN (online); Prof. Dr. Nita Yuanita, Chairperson of Indonesia Chapter of APEN. Their collective expertise and leadership shaped the discussions and initiatives for APEN’s future.
The FY2023 APEN Board of Directors’ Meeting and General Assembly Seminar was a momentous gathering of renowned educational leaders from Asia. The purpose of the event was to debate important concerns and developments in professional education. The hybrid structure promoted inclusivity and innovation, leading to collaborative initiatives and improved educational systems throughout the region. It underscored the organization’s commitment to advancing education in Asia and facilitating valuable collaborations among its diverse members. As the event concluded, its impact reverberated, setting the stage for the next chapter in the evolution of professional education in the Asia-Pacific region.
