International University Collaboration: Strengthening Academic and Cultural Ties at the 35th Meeting of the AULP
From 15–17 June 2026, IAU Secretary General Hilligje van’t Land joined 150 university leaders from Lusophone countries and China at the 35th Meeting of the Association of Portuguese Language Universities (AULP), marking the organisation’s 40th anniversary. Hosted by IAU Member University of Macau (UM), Macao Polytechnic University (MPU), and Macao University of Tourism (UTM), the conference also aligned with the 4th Forum of Rectors of China, Macau, and Portuguese-Speaking Countries, creating a unique platform for dialogue on higher education’s role in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
A Celebration of Language, Culture, and Collaboration
Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the AULP
Themed “International University Collaboration: Strengthening Academic and Cultural Ties between the Greater Bay Area (China), Macau-Hengqin and the Portuguese-Speaking Countries,” the event highlighted the Portuguese language as a cultural bridge and the power of interuniversity partnerships. The gathering coincided with the 45th anniversaries of UM and MPU, underscoring Macao’s historic role as a hub for Lusophone academia.
IAU Engagement: Advocating for Value-Based Higher Education
In her keynote on “University Relations on a Global Level,” Hilligje emphasised that universities are pillars of democracy, human rights, and social progress. She spotlighted IAU’s advocacy for fair internationalisation, sustainable development, and digital transformation, while introducing the World Higher Education Database (WHED) and its role in supporting the UNESCO Global Convention on the Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications.
“In a world order undergoing profound shifts marked by conflict, increasingly interventionist governments, loss of trust in institutions, and culture wars... [universities] remain central pillars of our nations, economies, and communities.”
The event also underscored the strong institutional ties between IAU and AULP: Cristina Sarmento, Secretary General of AULP, serves as an IAU Board Member and Vice President for Organisations. In this role, she helps shape the IAU’s global programme and international collaboration strategies.
Also during her visit, Hilligje engaged in one-on-one meetings with several university leaders, including UM’s leadership, to discuss pressing topics such as the evolving role of universities in today’s geopolitical context, digital transformation and the future of higher education, and global cooperation and the value of the IAU’s mission in fostering equitable, values-based higher education.
Global Connections
The conference offered exceptional visibility for IAU, reinforcing its position as a global leader in value-based higher education and cooperation. The event’s focus on strategic partnerships aligned with IAU’s commitment to transformative collaborations that address local and global challenges, from climate change to AI-driven education.
Looking Ahead
As universities worldwide navigate uncertainty, the IAU remains dedicated to advocating for publicly supported, independent higher education and fostering networks like AULP that bridge regions through shared values. The Macao meeting reaffirmed the critical role of multilateral dialogue in shaping a sustainable, inclusive future for higher education.
