Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit 2026

The Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit 2026 was held in Hong Kong, organized by the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship. The event involved senior management from over 50 global institutions representing more than 20 countries and regions.

During the summit, discussions focused on the role of higher education in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Participating university presidents issued a joint declaration emphasizing the need to promote AI education while preserving liberal arts education for social development. Professor Joshua Mok of Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HSUHK) chaired a panel on the complementary roles of public and private universities, identifying priorities such as lifelong learning, interdisciplinarity, and responsible AI advancement.

Other topics addressed included youth development, legal systems, and the use of the Northern Metropolis University Town to attract international talent. Additionally, HSUHK signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Athens University of Economics and Business to enhance academic collaboration and student exchanges.