Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning ASAIHL

Overview

The Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning (ASAIHL) is a non-governmental organization founded in 1956 in Bangkok, Thailand. It comprises over 240 member institutions from 17 countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. ASAIHL aims to promote cooperation among Southeast Asian higher education institutions to enhance teaching, research and community engagement. The association serves as a platform for academic collaboration and mutual support among its members.

History and Legal Framework

ASAIHL was established in January 1956 at a meeting in Bangkok of the heads of eight state universities in Southeast Asia. The founding members included representatives from institutions in Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Field Marshal Pibulsonggram, the Prime Minister of Thailand at the time, supported its foundation and approved setting up the Secretariat in Thailand. The Thai government provided initial financial and material support, which continued for several years until the association secured other sources of funding. More recently, the Thai government has been supporting the association with an annual grant of USD 10,000. ASAIHL operates as a non-governmental organization under Thai law, with its Secretariat located in Thailand.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

Mission: To assist member institutions in strengthening themselves through mutual self-help to achieve distinction in teaching, research and public service, thereby contributing to their respective nations and beyond.

Vision: To be a leading regional network of higher education institutions in Southeast Asia, fostering collaboration and excellence in education and research.

Objectives:

• Promote cooperation among higher education institutions in Southeast Asia.
• Enhance the quality of teaching and research through collaborative initiatives.
• Facilitate the exchange of academic staff and students among member institutions.
• Support the development of academic programs that address regional needs.
• Contribute to the social and economic development of Southeast Asia through education.

Governance, Structure and Independence

ASAIHL is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes representatives from member institutions. The association operates as a decentralized network, with each member institution maintaining its autonomy while participating in collective initiatives. The Secretariat, located in Thailand, coordinates the activities of the association and provides administrative support. ASAIHL maintains its independence through its non-governmental status and the voluntary participation of its member institutions, allowing it to uphold its mission without external influence.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

ASAIHL does not serve as an accrediting body but plays a significant role in promoting quality assurance within its member institutions. The association encourages the adoption of best practices in education and research, facilitates peer evaluations and supports the development of joint programs that adhere to high academic standards. Through its collaborative initiatives, ASAIHL contributes to the enhancement of educational quality and the alignment of curricula with regional and international expectations.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

ASAIHL actively engages in international cooperation to broaden the scope and impact of its initiatives. The association is a member of several regional and international networks, including the European League of Institutes of the Arts (ELIA) and the International Association of Universities and Colleges of Art, Design and Media (CUMULUS). These affiliations enable ASAIHL to participate in broader discussions on higher education policy, research funding and academic mobility, thereby enhancing the global presence of its member institutions.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

ASAIHL continues to impact higher education by promoting collaboration among universities, enhancing the quality of education and advocating for social justice. Through its initiatives, the association contributes to the development of joint academic programs, enhances research capabilities and promotes cultural exchange. Looking forward, ASAIHL aims to expand its network, increase the number of collaborative projects and strengthen its role in shaping the future of higher education in the Southeast Asian region.

Summary

The Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning is a key organization in fostering academic, scientific and cultural cooperation among higher education institutions in Southeast Asia. Through its collaborative initiatives, ASAIHL enhances the quality of education, promotes research excellence and contributes to the sustainable development of the region. Its commitment to international cooperation and adherence to high academic standards position ASAIHL as a significant player in the landscape of global higher education.

FAQs

• What is ASAIHL? ASAIHL is a non-governmental organization comprising over 240 higher education institutions from 17 countries in Southeast Asia and beyond, dedicated to promoting cooperation and excellence in education and research.
• When was ASAIHL founded? ASAIHL was founded in January 1956 in Bangkok, Thailand, by the heads of eight state universities in Southeast Asia.
• Does ASAIHL provide accreditation? No, ASAIHL does not serve as an accrediting body but promotes quality assurance and best practices among its member institutions.
• Where is ASAIHL headquartered? The Secretariat of ASAIHL is located in Thailand and the association operates as a non-governmental organization under Thai law.
• Is ASAIHL involved in international networks? Yes, ASAIHL is a member of several regional and international networks, enhancing the global presence of its member institutions.
• What is the ASAIHL Exchange Program? The ASAIHL Exchange Program allows students from member institutions to study for a semester at another ASAIHL-affiliated school, promoting academic and cultural exchange.

Organization Name

Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning

Acronym

ASAIHL

Year of Establishment

1/01/1956

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

International

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

c/o Asian Institute of Technology; PO Box 4, Klong Luang
Pathumthani
12120 Pathumthani Thailand

Phone

+66 2 524 5243

Fax

+66 2 524 5322

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Not available

X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

Not available

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning's Wikipedia article

Unlock your University's potential: spotlight your Institution on UniRank for leads, local recognition and branding. Enquiry now to feature your University here.

Explore other Thai higher education-related organizations and authorities.

Find top-ranked Universities in Thailand.

Search for courses and scholarships with the uniRank World Universities Search Engine.