Our office had the privilege of hosting the SATU (Southeast and South Asia and Taiwan Universities) Presidents’ Forum Steering Committee Meeting from November 17-18, 2023, with the main event was on November 17. The event witnessed the participation of 25 esteemed international delegates, primarily consisting of University Directors, Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors, Rectors, Directors, and Deans from various member universities of the SATU consortium. These delegates represented 14 SATU member universities across 9 diverse countries, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. The proceedings commenced with discussions on key topics such as the Adoption of the 2023 SCM Agenda, University Governance, the 2024 Activity Plan, budget considerations, and strategies to foster alliance synergies. A highlight of the event was the keynote sessions delivered by eminent experts in the field. Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, Government of India, provided invaluable insights on building the Indian S&T ecosystem through strategic DST initiatives. Concurrently, Prof. Mohd Fadhil Md Din, Director of the UTM Campus Sustainability, Malaysia, delivered a comprehensive discourse on the challenges and strategic approaches to sustainability and creating green campuses. To enhance the delegates' experience, our office organized a comprehensive campus tour on November 18, 2023, encompassing visits to various research facilities, followed by a city tour.
Hosting this esteemed gathering was a privilege, and we look forward to continued collaboration and shared growth within the SATU network.