The consultation aims to guide HEIs in creating action plans with strategies in addressing two of the most pressing issues today: inequality in access to education and technology, and climate justice and sustainability.

The consultation also seeks to be a platform where HEIs can share how they prepare for the future of education in relation to the pandemic and its effects; how they equip educators and students to live out hope and resilience amid uncertainty; and how they are leading their constituency and the wider community towards their preferred futures during and beyond crises.

The consultation was also organized to celebrate the rich histories of the institutions and networks of ACUCA and UB; in time for ACUCA’s 45th anniversary, SU’s 120th founding anniversary, and UB’s 100^th celebration in 2022.

“We at Silliman University are glad to host this virtual gathering on a special year for Silliman and ACUCA, as well as for the United Board in preparation for its centennial anniversary in 2022. This event is a great opportunity for HEIs to work together in creating solutions. We look forward to the fruitful exchange of knowledge and cooperation that we hope to achieve with this event,” said Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, SU president and ACUCA president.

Representatives of around 100 HEIs from the networks of ACUCA and UB are expected to attend the consultation.

SU is a founding member of ACUCA, a community of Christian institutions of higher learning in Asia with 69 member-institutions from nine countries of Asia, namely Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand.

SU is also a partner institution of the United Board, a New York-based not-for-profit organization with an office in Hong Kong that supports institutions in Asia through its programs and grants to improve the quality of higher education.