Taylor’s University

The International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) is an association for university chief executives from higher education institutions around the world. Membership is strictly limited to those individuals who serve as Presidents, Rectors or Vice-Chancellors at accredited colleges or universities. After the success of the Oxford and Wroxton IAUP 50th Anniversary Conference, the third semi-annual meeting was recently held on the Gold Coast (Australia). The President and VC of Bond University, Prof. Tim Brailsford, was pleased to host the event and welcome the many participants - including the VC & President of Taylor's University, Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr. Hassan Said. During the conference there were several sessions including two special panel sessions which generated robust discussion. They focused on two of the most significant challenges facing universities today: 'Meeting Technology Challenges' and 'Forging Successful International Partnerships'. Delegates heard from a panel of expert speakers who discussed how information technology continues to challenge and create opportunities for universities today, and how IT continues to impact on the evolution of higher education and institutions throughout the world.  The second special session looked at how international collaborations and partnerships have become integral to universities in supporting their international aspirations. Delegates heard from senior representatives from the Australian Government as to how universities and international education can help in contributing to soft diplomacy power.