AppliedHE Xchange 2026

Over two dynamic days, AppliedHE Xchange 2026 hosted by Sunway University will serve as a platform for dialogue, collaboration and action around the future of employability-driven education. More than just a conference, it is a platform to spark ideas, build partnerships and shape the next phase of institutional relevance and graduate success.

ABOUT APPLIEDHE XCHANGE 2026 @ SUNWAY UNIVERSITY

The AppliedHE Xchange 2026 brings together leaders from higher education, industry, government and quality assurance to explore how institutions can better prepare graduates for a fast-changing world.

Hosted by Sunway University at the newly launched Sunway Square, this two-day gathering will focus on employability, industry relevance, innovation and the evolving role of education in producing graduates who are ready not only for work, but to make meaningful contributions to society.

Through keynote conversations, panel discussions and strategic exchanges, the event will spotlight practical ideas, new partnerships and forward-looking initiatives that help institutions move beyond theory and deliver stronger outcomes.

Why It Matters

Employers today want more than a degree; they seek graduates who can communicate effectively, solve complex problems and adapt to new technologies.

Success in education is no longer measured by knowledge alone, but by how effectively institutions prepare students for life, work and meaningful contribution in the real world.

Today's graduates need more than qualifications. They need adaptability, practical exposure, confidence, communication skills and the ability to thrive in diverse professional environments. Institutions, in turn, must become more connected to employers, more responsive to change and more intentional about outcomes.

The theme, Beyond Skills, reflects this broader ambition while creating space for important new conversations around applied learning, industry alignment and future benchmarking initiatives.

Moving beyond theory

Equipping the next generation of graduates with the skills, confidence, and adaptability needed to thrive.

Core Pillars:

• Adaptability and problem solving

• Effective communication

• Intentional outcomes

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The bigger purpose

WHY THIS GATHERING MATTERS BEYOND THE ROOM

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS TO WATCH

Key moments designed to drive real change across ASEAN and beyond.

Featured Launch: 

APPLIEDHE PUBLIC & PRIVATE UNIVERSITY RANKINGS: ASEAN 2027

A headline moment within the event programme, bringing together institutional leaders and partners around the launch of the 2027 ASEAN rankings. 

Workshop Spotlight 

 CO-CREATE WORKSHOP FOR THE APPLIEDHE TVET RANKING: ASEAN INITIATIVE

• A dedicated collaborative workshop designed to help shape the direction, principles, and community voice behind the planned TVET ranking framework.

• As part of Xchange 2026, a dedicated Co-Create Workshop will be convened to initiate discussions on the development of the AppliedHE TVET Ranking.

• This workshop will bring together key stakeholders to help shape the principles, priorities and community-informed direction of the ranking framework. Guided by the spirit of The People's Voices, the session will serve as the foundation for a more robust, relevant and credible ranking system to be launched in 2027.

• The workshop is designed not merely as a discussion, but as a collective step towards building a framework that reflects the realities, aspirations and strengths of institutions delivering applied, career-focused and industry-linked education.

Grand Panel Discussions

 TWO POWERFUL CONVERSATIONS SHAPING WHAT COMES NEXT

A lively pair of panel discussions tackling some of the biggest questions in education today.

Indicative Topics:

• Beyond Academic Knowledge: Why Applied Learning, Skills and Adaptability Matter More Than Ever

• Human Skills in a Digital Age: What Must Not Be Lost

Special Session

 HOW DO USERS UNDERSTAND UNIVERSITY PERFORMANCE RANKINGS? BEHAVIOURAL AND COGNITIVE PERSPECTIVES

WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE ARE GOING

A timely regional session exploring how ASEAN countries are rethinking TVET to respond to changing workforce needs, strengthen quality and improve job readiness.

Further information on AppliedHEXCHANGE 2006 @ Sunway including registration fees, accommodation and full programme agenda can be found on their official website below: 

APPLIEDHEXchange 2026

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