Asia-Pacific Business Schools to Focus on Accreditation Standards in Thailand Conference
Chiang Mai, Thailand – Business education leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region will convene in in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to discuss evolving accreditation standards and their implications for institutions. The Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference, hosted by Chiang Mai University Business School, will center on the proposed updates to AACSB’s Global Standards for Business Education™ and the 2026 Accounting Accreditation Standards.
The conference aims to provide a forum for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, focusing on practical approaches to accreditation, continuous improvement and addressing the challenges facing business schools in the region. Participants will explore how the proposed standards impact strategy, processes, and evidence planning, as well as stakeholder engagement.
The timing of the conference is significant, as the proposed standards are slated to be presented for a vote at AACSB’s International Conference And Meetings (ICAM). The Chiang Mai gathering offers an opportunity for institutions to reflect on and understand the changes ahead of the formal adoption process.
Focus on Practical Implementation
The conference agenda will emphasize practical application of accreditation principles. Sessions will cover interpreting standards expectations, aligning evidence across key processes, and designing effective continuous improvement systems. Attendees will also explore change management and governance strategies, as well as regional trends impacting accreditation strategy.
Specifically, the conference will address:
- Interpreting standards expectations and aligning evidence across key processes
- Designing effective continuous improvement systems and documentation practices
- Preparing for initial accreditation or continuous improvement review engagements
- Learning from peer institutions on implementation, change management, and governance
- Exploring regional trends and emerging topics impacting accreditation strategy
Who Should Attend
The conference is designed for a range of stakeholders within business schools, including deans, associate deans, accreditation managers, quality assurance coordinators, department chairs, and faculty leaders. The event aims to foster a collaborative environment for sharing best practices and addressing common challenges.
Regional Context and Collaboration
Hosted in Chiang Mai, the conference leverages Thailand’s growing higher education landscape as a backdrop for discussions on global accreditation expectations. Organizers highlight the value of connecting with institutions facing diverse missions, resources, and stakeholder demands, allowing participants to adapt strategies to their specific contexts.
The location is intended to facilitate peer learning and exchange within the Asia-Pacific region, providing a convening point for institutions navigating similar accreditation timelines and governance models. The conference will feature opportunities to connect with peers and build a supportive community committed to advancing business education.
AACSB Standards Evolution
The proposed Global Standards for Business Education™ and the 2026 Accounting Accreditation Standards represent a significant update to AACSB’s framework for quality assurance in business and accounting education. The standards aim to enhance quality, impact, and accountability within institutions globally.
The conference will provide a deep dive into the implications of these proposed standards, exploring how they may influence institutional strategy and processes. Discussions will focus on how institutions can demonstrate impact and engage stakeholders effectively in the accreditation process.
Upcoming AACSB Events
The Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference is one of several events planned by AACSB in . Other upcoming events include the AoL and Assessment Conference in Bologna, Italy in , and the International Conference And Meetings in Seattle, Washington, USA in . A webinar on “Designing Global Programs That Deliver: A Practical Guide to Developing Cultural Agility” is scheduled for .
Registration details for the Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference will be announced soon. Interested participants are encouraged to sign up for updates on the AACSB website.
The conference is an important opportunity for business schools in the Asia-Pacific region to prepare for the evolving landscape of accreditation and ensure they are meeting the highest standards of quality and impact.
