From October 22 to 24, 2026, a delegation from Ho Chi Minh City Open University (HCMCOU), led by Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Ha – Secretary of the Party Committee and President of the University, together with university leaders, academic and administrative staff, participated in the 39th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU 2026). The conference was hosted by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).
Under the theme “”Responding to Global Challenges Towards a Resilient and Future-Ready Open and Distance Education”, the conference brought together researchers, education experts, administrators, and policymakers from across Asia. It served as a platform for academic exchange, knowledge sharing, and international collaboration to address emerging challenges and opportunities in open, distance, and online education amid digital transformation.
The conference sessions focused on six key areas: (1) Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Learning Technologies; (2) Immersive, Flexible, and Next-Generation Learning Environments; (3) Equity, Accessibility, and Digital Inclusion; (4) Learner Support, Engagement, and Well-being; (5) Quality Assurance, Assessment, and Credentialing; (6) Institutional Resilience, Policy, and Governance.
Participation in the conference provided the HCMCOU delegation with valuable opportunities to explore emerging international trends, knowledge, and best practices in distance and online education. It also strengthened connections with educational institutions across the region, creating opportunities for collaboration in teaching, learning, and scientific research. These efforts contribute to enhancing educational quality and improving learner support services.
Notably, Ho Chi Minh City Open University will host the 40th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU 2027) in Vietnam. This upcoming event represents a significant opportunity for the University to further strengthen its role in fostering regional connections, facilitating academic exchange, and promoting international cooperation, while contributing to the continued development of open education across Asia.
Highlights from the conference:
Compiled by OU News