Research innovation and influence from within the region continues to grow and expand internationally, with several initiatives and plans underway to further build on its successes. Universities are also expanding their research output in new and innovative areas. How has it asserted itself within this area? What opportunities exist for international and cross-sectorial collaboration? How are research initiatives changing over time and where will the lead to?

Almost half a million international students have chosen the region as their study destination, a number that has remained stable despite the challenges of the pandemic. Many students are also coming from source countries different from those in other established study destinations, while the region continues to export its education models. What can be learnt from the region’s success? Why are students attracted to it as a study destination and how can this be sustained? How can different models of study be exported elsewhere?

Online and alternative modes of study have been very popular within the region, but new challenges mean this may change. As providers look towards offering online education and increasing access to underrepresented students, the region has the opportunity to develop its own methods of teaching learning. What are the challenges to offering online and virtual education? What considerations need to be made in developing opportunities for teaching and learning? Are there lessons that can be translated into new areas?