To advance progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Asia Pacific Consortium of Researchers and Educators (APCORE) organized the Asian Graduate Studies Summit 2024 (A-GRASS 2024) in collaboration with the Graduate School of Burapha University and esteemed institutions from the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The summit, held from April 3–5, brought together over 400 participants from 67 institutions at the Bangsaen Heritage Hotel in Chon Buri, Thailand. Attendees included academic officials, graduate students, and researchers, including faculty members from Rizal Technological University (RTU). Additionally, the event was accessible virtually through virtual platforms, facilitating global participation.

With a resounding focus on leveraging graduate education and research to address pressing societal challenges, A-GRASS 2024 served as a pivotal platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative endeavors. Under the theme “Integrative Solutions for the Future of Asia: Catalyzing Graduate Research for Sustainable Development,” the summit marked the inaugural gathering of ASEAN region institutions with a shared dedication to graduate education management.

The agenda was structured around various interactive sessions and workshops tailored to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and capacity-building. Attendees engaged in keynote sessions featuring notable experts delivering insightful speeches on global and regional imperatives. Plenary sessions, led by invited scholars and industry leaders, facilitated engaging panel discussions on specialized topics.

One of the key highlights was the opportunity for graduate students and faculty to present their research papers, fostering dialogue and collaboration. Additionally, hands-on workshops equipped attendees with essential research tools and methodologies. Industry professionals provided specialized training through masterclasses on pertinent subjects.

The summit also provided a platform for scholars to converge and initiate cross-disciplinary research initiatives through the Research Incubation Grid. Outstanding contributions were recognized during the Research Awards Ceremony, encouraging excellence in research aligned with the UN SDGs.

Among the distinguished presenters, Dr. Corazon D. Austria, Chancellor of RTU Pasig, presented a compelling tracer study on the employability of RTU graduates. Moreover, Asst. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, Director of RTU Public Affairs, served as one of the session chairpersons, contributing to the success of the virtual parallel sessions.

With over 300 academic papers presented across five major conference tracks, A-GRASS 2024 stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to harnessing academia as a catalyst for sustainable development and societal progress.