19–21 November
Transforming Higher Education for a Sustainable, Innovative, and AI-Enabled Future
Daffodil International University
Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka – 1216, Bangladesh
The International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) is a prestigious global network of university leaders dedicated to promoting international understanding, academic collaboration, and responsible leadership in higher education. Founded in 1964, IAUP brings together presidents, rectors, and vice chancellors worldwide to address global challenges through education.
IAUP serves as a trusted platform for dialogue, policy exchange, and partnership-building, working closely with international organizations and academic networks to advance peace, sustainability, ethical governance, innovation, and social responsibility. Through conferences and leadership initiatives, IAUP encourages universities to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable global future.
Chairman,
Sias University (China)
President,
CETYS University (Mexico)
President,
California State University, San Bernardino (USA)
Vice Chancellor
Tanioka Gakuen Education Foundation (Japan)
Daffodil International University (DIU), a leading private university in Bangladesh, recognized in world university rankings such as QS and Times Higher Education (THE).DIU is ranked 221st in Asia (QS Asia 2026) and 1st in Bangladesh (THE WUR 2026), Ist in Bangladesh in both THE Impact Rankings 2025 and QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 with strong performance in research and interdisciplinary innovation.
DIU is the number one private university in Bangladesh in terms of Scopus and Web of Science indexed research publications. QS World University Rankings also recognizes DIU as a "Very High Research Intensive University".
The university maintains over 600 international partnerships and actively engages in student and faculty exchange, international internships, research collaboration, scholarships, and global mobility programs
The university has also successfully hosted major international events, including the AUPF 2019 and the AUAP General Conference 2022.
The IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026 will be hosted by Daffodil International University in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from 19 to 21 November 2026. The meeting will bring together presidents, rectors, vice chancellors, and senior university leaders from around the world for high-level dialogue, governance meetings, and strategic engagement on key issues in global higher education leadership.
The program will include meetings of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP), along with keynote addresses, plenary discussions, and parallel sessions focused on leadership, innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation.
In addition to the formal academic agenda, participants will take part in cultural programs, institutional visits, and networking activities that encourage collaboration and knowledge exchange. The meeting is expected to welcome 100 to 150 from local and international delegates and will coincide with the celebration of 25 years of Daffodil International University, highlighting the institution's commitment to global engagement and academic leadership.
Dhaka is the capital city of a South Asian country, Bangladesh. It is the hub of economic, political and administrative enterprises located in central Bangladesh at 23°42′N 90°22′E, on the eastern banks of the Buriganga River. It lies on the lower reaches of the Ganges Delta and covers a total area of 306.38 square kilometers (around 118.29 square miles).
Historically, Dhaka was associated with the periods of Kamarupa kingdom, Sena kingdom, and Sultanate period, and was a part of Mughal Empire, Nawabi Period, British. The capital has a favorable climate characterized by tropical monsoon from June to October; mild winter from October to March; hot, humid summer from March to June.
The demographic features of the city are varied in character. Dhaka city corporations are the most populated urban areas with the highest density accommodating over 22 million people including Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and others.
The International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) Semi-Annual Meeting 2026 invites distinguished university leaders, academics, researchers, and experts to serve as panel speakers in its thematic sessions. Hosted by Daffodil International University, this global forum will bring together thought leaders to exchange insights and shape the future of higher education.
We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with demonstrated expertise and leadership in the following areas:
Presidents, Vice-Chancellors, Rectors, senior academics, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders with relevant experience and a strong track record in the respective themes.
Interested speakers are requested to submit a brief profile, photo (150–200 words) along with their proposed contribution to the session theme.
Selected panelists will have the opportunity to engage with global peers, contribute to high-level discussions, and expand international collaboration networks.
Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!
Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!
Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!
Join us for an exciting 3-day event packed with high-level dialogs, governance meetings, cultural immersions, and the grand celebration of DIU's 25th anniversary.
Extend your trip and discover the natural beauty of Bangladesh.
Travel by helicopter or flight.
Visiting by helicopter.
Registration to the meeting is now open. DIU 2026 will take place as an in-person event only.
Special rate for association members and partner universities
Standard registration rate
Accompanying persons
Bangladesh-based participants
The IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026 will take place across three premium locations in Dhaka, progressing from the city center to our expansive smart campus.
Dhanmondi, Dhaka
44 Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Banani, Dhaka
Birulia, Savar, Dhaka – 1216, Bangladesh
The following hotels are available for delegates and accompanying family members during the conference period.
Ensure you have the proper documentation for your travel. Below you will find official resources for Bangladesh visa applications and on-arrival instructions.
Check if your country is eligible for Visa-on-Arrival in Bangladesh.
Click HereGeneral instructions and procedures for obtaining a Visa on Arrival.
Click HereWe are collaborating with leading institutions and organizations worldwide. The complete list of our esteemed partners will be announced shortly.
Have questions about the IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026? Contact our secretariat for assistance with registration, accommodation, or general inquiries.
Daffodil Smart City, Birulia
Savar, Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh
Secure your place at the IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026 hosted by Daffodil International University. Early bird registration ends August 31, 2026.