The conference will be held on June 11–13, 2026, in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It will bring together university leaders, policymakers, international experts, and practitioners to rethink and strengthen the role of higher education institutions in addressing today’s most pressing societal challenges.
The conference is organized in partnership with the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP), the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, The Phoenix Philanthropy Group, UN PRME, and the British Council. It will bring together university leaders, policymakers, and international experts to explore how higher education institutions can generate measurable social, economic, and environmental impact.
This event will serve as a regional and global platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange on how universities can move beyond mission statements to deliver measurable social, economic, and environmental impact. The program will focus on the evolving responsibilities of universities as drivers of sustainable development, innovation, and responsible leadership. Special attention will be given to aligning institutional strategies with global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), PRME principles, and ESG agendas, while responding to regional contexts and needs.
As the first IAUP conference hosted in Central Asia, this gathering provides a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping a shared regional vision while engaging in global conversations on the future of higher education. The conference aims to foster long-term partnerships and inspire universities to act as purposeful institutions that create lasting value for society. In addition, the third day of the conference will offer participants a rich cultural experience in and around Almaty city.
We would be pleased to welcome representatives of your university to participate in the conference and contribute to its discussions and outcomes. Additional details regarding the tentative program, registration, and logistics are available at https://iaup2026.almau.edu.kz/.
Registration Deadline for the Conference: 31st May 2026
For participants requiring a visa to the Republic of Kazakhstan, the registration deadline is 10th May 2026.
Non-Member Standard: 500$
Participants' Family: 500$
Central Asia Regional Rate: 200$
* If you are attending with a partner, family members, or others, please ensure that each participant completes a separate registration form and that the registration fee is paid for each person.
* IAUP offers a 50% membership fee discount for new members from Central Asia, valid for a period of three (3) years. For further information, please contact IAUP via the official email address: office@iaup.org
In addition to the academic program, participants will have the opportunity to experience the cultural and natural richness of Almaty.
Additionally, AlmaU invites you and your colleagues to take part in a closed executive intensive course for higher education leaders, “Impactful Leadership for Rectors”, to be held on June 13–15, 2026, in Almaty. Designed as a continuation of the IAUP conference, the program offers a focused, high-level learning experience for university leadership teams. Participants of the intensive course will receive a 100% discount on the IAUP conference participation.