The 7th ASEAN+3 Rectors’ Conference took place on 19–20 November 2025 at Can Tho University (CTU) under the theme “Beyond Borders: Strengthening Networks, Sharing Excellence, and Advancing Sustainable ASEAN+3 Collaboration.” The event gathered more than 150 domestic and international delegates, including leaders from over 50 universities across ASEAN and three strategic partners Japan, Korea, and China, within the ASEAN+3 University Network (UNet).
The conference welcomed Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanapan Laiprakobsup – Executive Director of the ASEAN University Network (AUN); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thu Thuy – Director General of the International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam; and Mr. Nguyen Van Khoi – Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Can Tho City. Representing CTU were Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong – Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Trung Tinh – Rector; together with members of the Board of Trustees and the Rectorate Board.
As a biennial high-level academic forum organized by AUN, the ASEAN+3 Rectors’ Conference provides a strategic platform for higher education leaders to engage in dialogue amid the context of globalization and rapid digital transformation. The central objective of this year’s conference is to strengthen sustainable cooperation, enhance regional linkages, promote knowledge sharing, and build collective strategies to address higher education challenges in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Conference sessions focused on key areas such as health equity, digital health, food security, sustainable agriculture, technology transfer, and the application of digital technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and smart systems in training, research, and university governance. These discussions reflect an interdisciplinary, interregional, and cross-sectoral approach, demonstrating the proactive and aspirational spirit of the ASEAN+3 university community. 
As the host institution, CTU reaffirmed its position as a reputable and internationally engaged university in the region. The university emphasized its commitment to the ASEAN+3 education network by promoting sustainable academic values and contributing to addressing global challenges such as digital transformation in education, food security, smart agriculture, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development.
The 7th ASEAN+3 Rectors’ Conference is not only a strategic policy dialogue in higher education but also a significant milestone for CTU in its journey of international integration. The event strengthens CTU’s role in regional academic cooperation, opens new strategic pathways for participation in multinational research programs, supports the development of high-quality human resources, and fosters an innovation-driven ecosystem within the ASEAN+3 space - where knowledge, cooperation, and vision converge.
For more details and photos, please visit Can Tho University's Website