IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026

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

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IAUP Logo
Global Network

About IAUP

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.

IAUP Leadership

Dr. Shawn Chen

Dr. Shawn Chen

Chairman,

Sias University (China)

IAUP President
Prof. Tatsuro Tanioka

Prof. Tatsuro Tanioka

Vice Chancellor

Tanioka Gakuen Education Foundation (Japan)

IAUP Secretary-General
Dr. Md. Sabur Khan

Dr. Md. Sabur Khan

Founder and Chairman

Daffodil International University

Treasurer Elect 2024-2027
Host Institution

About DIU

Founded in 2002, Daffodil International University (DIU) is one of the top universities in Bangladesh according to many national and international rankings, including THE, QS and Greenmetric for its green outlook. Daffodil International University (DIU) is 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), 1st in Bangladesh in both THE Impact Rankings 2025 and QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 with strong performance in research and interdisciplinary innovation.

Currently, DIU serves a diverse academic community of 25,000+ students across 6 faculties and 32 departments, including 200+ international students from various regions of the world. Our campus promotes a globally inclusive learning environment supported by modern infrastructure and strong industry linkages.

DIU has established over 600 active international partnerships worldwide and is a proud member of numerous prestigious global networks and associations. With global partners, DIU is mutually working in the area of student and faculty exchange programs, summer & winter programs, scholarship, international internship, research collaborations, short-term training programs, virtual mobility, etc.

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International Students
600+
International Partner Institution
About DIU Campus
Top Ranked University in Bangladesh
The Event

IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026

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.

Key Highlights

  • IAUP Executive Committee and Board of Directors meetings
  • Participation of 100 to 150 global university leaders
  • Keynote and plenary sessions on higher education leadership
  • Parallel thematic discussions on innovation and sustainability
  • Campus Tour: Daffodil International University at Daffodil Smart City
  • Celebration of 25 years of Daffodil International University
  • MoU signing and international networking sessions
  • Cultural programs and Dhaka city sightseeing
  • Optional post-event tour programs
Host City

About Dhaka, Bangladesh

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, Nawab era, 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 (North and South) city corporations are the most populated urban areas with the highest density accommodating over 22 million people including Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and others.

Call for Participation

Call for Panel Speakers

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.

Thematic Areas

We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with demonstrated expertise and leadership in the following areas:

  • AI-Enhanced Pedagogies and Learning Innovation
  • Leadership, Governance, and Institutional Transformation in Higher Education
  • Higher Education Contributions to Sustainability and SDG Implementation
  • Entrepreneurial Universities, Innovation Hubs, and Industry Partnerships

Who Should Apply

Presidents, Vice-Chancellors, Rectors, senior academics, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders with relevant experience and a strong track record in the respective themes.

How to Express Interest

Interested speakers are requested to submit a brief profile, photo (150–200 words) along with their proposed contribution to the session theme.

Deadline: 30th June 2026
Email: TBA

Selected panelists will have the opportunity to engage with global peers, contribute to high-level discussions, and expand international collaboration networks.

Distinguished Guests

Event Speakers

Soon

Coming Soon

Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!

Soon

Coming Soon

Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!

Soon

Coming Soon

Eminent speaker details will be announced shortly. Stay tuned for updates!

Event Schedule

Tentative Program

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.

Conference Day 1

Day 1 – 19 Nov (Thursday)

Daffodil Tower, Dhanmondi

Meetings & Welcome

  • Registration & Welcome Coffee
  • IAUP Executive Committee Meeting
  • IAUP Board of Directors Meeting
  • Welcome Dinner hosted by Daffodil International University
Conference Day 2

Day 2 – 20 Nov (Friday)

Hotel Sheraton, Banani

Main Conference

  • Registration & Networking Coffee
  • Opening Ceremony & Keynote Session
  • Networking Lunch & Prayer
  • Panel Session 1
  • Coffee Break
  • Panel Session 2
  • Poster Presentation
  • Session Break & Networking Time
  • Gala Dinner & Cultural Program
Conference Day 3

Day 3 – 21 Nov (Saturday)

Daffodil Smart City, Birulia

Anniversary & Closing

  • Reception
  • Campus Tour – Daffodil Smart City
  • Join 25th Anniversary Program
  • MoU Signing Ceremony
  • Closing Ceremony
  • Lunch & Departure of Delegates

Optional Post-Event (TBC)

Extend your trip and discover the natural beauty of Bangladesh.

Tea Gardens in Jaflong

Tea Gardens in Jaflong

Travel by helicopter or flight.

Visiting the Sundarbans

The Sundarbans

Visiting by helicopter.

Timeline

Important Dates

Deadline of Early Bird Registration30 June 2026
Deadline of General Registration30 October 2026
Deadline of Late Registration10 November 2026
Program Date19-21 November 2026
Fees and Conditions

Registration Options

Registration to the meeting is now open. DIU 2026 will take place as an in-person event only.

Non-Members

Standard registration rate

Early BirdUSD 500
GeneralUSD 600
Late RegistrationUSD 700
  • All conference sessions
  • Conference kit and materials
  • Lunch and coffee breaks
  • Gala dinner and cultural night
Register Now

Participants' Family

Accompanying persons

Flat RateUSD 400
  • Welcome reception
  • Gala dinner
  • Cultural program
  • Dhaka city tour
Register Now
Event Locations

Conference Venues

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.

Daffodil Tower
Day 1

Daffodil Tower

Dhanmondi, Dhaka

Hotel Sheraton Dhaka
Day 2

Hotel Sheraton Dhaka

44 Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Banani, Dhaka

Daffodil Smart City
Day 3

Daffodil Smart City

Birulia, Savar, Dhaka – 1216, Bangladesh

Travel Information

Bangladesh Visa Guideline

Ensure you have the proper documentation for your travel. Below you will find official resources for Bangladesh visa applications and on-arrival instructions.

General Visa

Official portal for Bangladesh visa application and requirements.

Click Here

Landing Permit (LP) Eligibility

Check if your country is eligible for Visa-on-Arrival in Bangladesh.

Click Here

Visa on Arrival (VOA) Instructions

General instructions and procedures for obtaining a Visa on Arrival.

Click Here

Our Partners

We are collaborating with leading institutions and organizations worldwide. The complete list of our esteemed partners will be announced shortly.

Details Coming Soon...

Contact Secretariat

Have questions about the IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026? Contact our secretariat for assistance with registration, accommodation, or general inquiries.

Location

Daffodil Smart City, Birulia
Savar, Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh

19-21 November 2026

Ready to Join Us in Dhaka?

Secure your place at the IAUP Semi-Annual Meeting 2026 hosted by Daffodil International University. Early bird registration ends June 30, 2026.