The 2026 QS Yearbook captures a year of significant transformation in higher education, highlighting the impact of artificial intelligence, global shifts, financial sustainability challenges, evolving international education trends, and the growing importance of data and partnerships. As a reflection of the sector’s progress and challenges, the publication offers insights into the key issues shaping universities and their future direction.

Access the full version here: 2026 QS YEARBOOK

The EDCOM II Final Report presents a comprehensive diagnosis of the Philippine education crisis, drawing on 95 studies and three years of national assessment. It highlights a systemic “proficiency collapse,” with only 0.40% of Grade 12 students meeting minimum standards, driven by factors such as childhood stunting, mass promotion, and fragmented governance. To address these challenges, the Commission proposes the National Education and Workforce Development Plan (NatPlan) 2026–2035—a strategic roadmap focused on strengthening foundational literacy and early childhood development, aligning higher education and TVET with industry needs, and streamlining governance. The plan builds on key reforms already achieved, including 10 landmark education laws, the resolution of the textbook procurement crisis, and a historic education budget allocation equivalent to 4.4% of GDP.

Access the full version here: EDCOM 2 Final Report

The ASEAN University Network (AUN) Secretariat launches the AUN-QA IQA Management Toolkit Version 1.3, a practical and adaptable guide for establishing and sustaining effective internal quality assurance systems. Designed to embed IQA into institutional culture, it presents eight interdependent building blocks of university quality management that transform IQA from a procedural requirement into a driver of continuous improvement and educational excellence. We hope this 2025 version serves as a trusted companion in your journey toward academic quality and excellence.

Access the full version here: AUN-QA IQA Management Toolkit

Universities across the Southeast Asian region are increasingly becoming engines of transformation, driving economic growth, innovation and sustainability, as highlighted in the recent report by QS Quacquarelli Symonds. From rising global rankings and stronger international partnerships to the urgent task of aligning curricula with the rapid pace of digital, AI and green-economy demands, the region’s higher-education institutions are shaping the future of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They are not merely centres of learning — they are at the forefront of enabling new jobs, adapting to evolving global skills gaps, and embedding sustainability into research and operations.

Check out the full QS Quacquarelli Symonds report on the ASEAN Education Revolution here: https://26055784.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26055784/Reports/ASEAN%20Report%202025_Digital.pdf

The EDCOM 2 Year Two Report, titled "Fixing the Foundations," highlights the critical need for reform in the Philippine education system to overcome the ongoing learning crisis. Building on the findings of the previous year, the report stresses the urgency of addressing deep-rooted challenges across all levels of education, from early childhood to higher education. Key findings include alarming statistics, such as the widespread nutritional deficits affecting young children, widespread delays in basic education, and the severe barriers faced by higher education institutions, particularly in marginalized regions like BARMM. With the demographic window closing by 2045, EDCOM 2 emphasizes that these education system shortcomings are not only social issues but economic imperatives that must be urgently addressed. The report draws from extensive research, consultations, and field visits, offering a comprehensive roadmap for reform, while calling for immediate action to ensure Filipino learners' future success and stability. As EDCOM enters its final year, it aims to present a national education and workforce development plan to guide long-term, sustainable improvements.

Download the full version here:
https://edcom2.gov.ph/media/2025/01/EDCOM-2-Year-2-Report-Fixing-the-Foundations-2025.pdf

The ongoing conversation on ethics plays a pivotal role in deepening our understanding of the evolving core values, practices, and principles that shape societal development. While much progress has been made, significant gaps remain, especially in exploring the diverse ethical frameworks that influence human behavior. In the context of the ASEAN region, its rich history and cultural diversity have given rise to unique ethical codes and values that are integral to its social fabric. Dr. Bob Aubrey, Founder of the ASEAN Human Development Organisation (AHDO), in partnership with the ASEAN University Network (AUN) Secretariat, is excited to announce the launch of The Ethics of ASEAN book. This comprehensive work, designed and printed by Universiti Malaya Press, is now available for free online, offering valuable insights into the ethical underpinnings of the region.

PDF Version: https://www.aseanhdo.com/publications

Flipbook Version: https://online.flipbuilder.com/terbit/dosi

The Printed Version is also available at the AUN Secretariat.