UA Strengthens Global Academic Presence at International Conference in Nepal

Advancing Responsible Artificial Intelligence, Social Innovation, and Sustainable Development Through Global Partnerships

Kathmandu, Nepal | November 5, 2026

The University of the Assumption (UA), Philippines, marked another milestone in its internationalization efforts as Rev. Fr. Oliver G. Yalung, DL, PhD, University President, delivered a message at the 6th UNESCO University Twinning and Networking (UNITWIN) Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Research and Action (SIERA) International Conference and 2nd School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU) International Conference in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Joining Fr. Yalung were Dr. Arnel T. Sicat, Vice President for Academic Affairs and concurrent Director of the Research and Planning Office, and Dr. Michaella Castillo, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, concurrent Dean of the School of Business and Public Administration (SBPA) and College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM), and Director of Internationalization.

With the theme “Inclusive and Sustainable Future: Social Innovation in the AI Era,” the conference gathered distinguished academic leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to explore the role of artificial intelligence in advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The conference was jointly organized by UNESCO UNITWIN, Handong Global University (South Korea), the School of Management of Tribhuvan University (Nepal), the University of the Assumption (Philippines), and the University of Finance and Economics (Mongolia), with sponsorship from the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea.

Distinguished International Leaders and Scholars

The gathering was graced by H.E. Park Jae-Kyung, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, alongside Dr. Anjana Maharjan Singh, Rector of Tribhuvan University, Nepal; Dr. Byambadash Munkhbayar, President of the University of Finance and Economics, Mongolia; and Dr. Altangerel Yondon, Dean of International School.

Also in attendance were Dr. Byungdok Kang, Dr. Kee Seon Yoo, and Dr. Kyubong Cho of Handong Global University, and Dr. Soo Young Chang of Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), South Korea.

The conference featured distinguished keynote speakers Dr. Gunakar Bhatta, Vice-Chairperson of Nepal’s National Planning Commission, and Prof. Dr. Nir Kshetri of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, United States of America.

Innovation with Humanity at Its Core

In his message, Fr. Yalung emphasized that technological advancement must be guided by human dignity, ethical responsibility, compassion, and the common good, highlighting the responsibility of universities to develop globally competent and socially responsible future leaders.

As a co-organizing institution, UA reaffirmed its commitment to international academic collaboration, research, innovation, and meaningful partnerships aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

More than global visibility, UA’s participation reflects its growing role in connecting institutions, advancing knowledge, and transforming international partnerships into meaningful opportunities for education and society.

UA on the Global Stage: Connecting Nations. Advancing Knowledge. Transforming Communities.

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