Global Academic Synergy: ASAIHL Leaders and UN Expert Address Pakistani University Executives in Bangkok

BANGKOK, January 22, 2026 – Strengthening the ties between Southeast Asian and South Asian higher education, the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) today hosted a high-level seminar on “International Networking for Tertiary Education Institutions.”

 

The event took place at the Yunus Center as a cornerstone of the Social Enterprise Development Leadership Program. The delegation of 26 academic leaders representing 19 public universities across Pakistan was led by Prof. Syed Hussain Haider, Vice-Chairman of the Pakistan Institute of Human Rights (PIHR) and Senior Legal Expert for the UNODC. The program focused on fostering sustainable institutional growth and cross-border cooperation.

 

Expert Perspectives on Global Connectivity
The session featured a panel of distinguished voices in regional academic cooperation:
• Dr. Suchin Worawichawong: Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning (ASAIHL).
• Dr. Ninnat Olanvoravuth: Emeritus Secretary-General of ASAIHL.
• Prof. Syed Hussain Haider (Moderator): Vice-Chairman of the PIHR and Senior Legal Expert for the UNODC.

 

Introducing ASAIHL to Pakistan’s Academic Elite
A key highlight was the formal introduction of ASAIHL to the Pakistani delegation. Dr. Suchin Worawichawong provided an in-depth overview of the Association’s mission, which has served as a pillar for academic excellence in Southeast Asia since 1956.

Dr. Suchin and Dr. Ninnat emphasized that the foundation of all meaningful academic collaboration begins with robust networking between universities. They noted that by establishing these initial connections, institutions create the essential groundwork for larger inter-regional research, student mobility, and long-term membership opportunities within the ASAIHL framework.

"Direct networking between universities is the vital starting point for all global partnerships. By aligning with regional bodies like ASAIHL, Pakistani institutions can initiate the connections necessary to integrate social enterprise models with robust global standards."