Sabur Khan urges universities to adopt entrepreneurial model at IAUP Asia Pacific meet

Dr Md Sabur Khan delivered a keynote address at the IAUP Asia Pacific Regional Conference 2026 on 13 January, calling for universities to transform into entrepreneurial institutions that actively support innovation, economic growth and social development.

The conference, jointly organised by INTI International University and the International Association of University Presidents, was held at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel under the theme Global Connections, Collective Growth. It brought together university presidents, senior academics, policymakers and education experts from across the region, says a press release.

In his keynote, titled The Entrepreneurial University Model: Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry for Sustainable Regional Growth, Dr Khan emphasised the need for closer collaboration between universities and industry. He said higher education institutions should function as innovation hubs and equip students to become job creators rather than job seekers.

Dr Khan outlined frameworks for building integrated innovation ecosystems involving universities, industry, government and communities. He said such collaboration was essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive regional development.

Professor Dr Joseph Lee, vice-chancellor of INTI International University, said Dr Khan’s keynote offered a forward-looking perspective on the changing role of universities in a knowledge-driven economy. He said the address aligned strongly with the conference focus on collective growth through global collaboration.

Participants described the keynote as timely and relevant, noting its practical value for institutional leaders navigating academic and economic transformation.