IASP Asia Pacific Division conference highlights collaboration, sustainability and human-centred innovation

Hosted by IASP member Science and Technology Park Chiang Mai University (CMU STeP), the IASP Asia Pacific Division Conference brought together more than 150 participants in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from 2 to 4 June under the theme "From Asia Pacific to the Global Ecosystems: Empowering Sustainable and Inclusive Growth through Innovation." 

Following the opening addresses by IASP Asia Pacific Division President Hao Tang, Vice President at Chiang Mai University (CMU) and Director of Regional Science Park North in Thailand Tanyanuparb Anantana, CMU STeP Director Pitiwat Wattanachai, and IASP CEO Ebba Lund, the conference programme reflected on many of the priorities currently shaping innovation ecosystems across the region, from collaboration and sustainability to the growing role of artificial intelligence.  

Throughout sessions, speakers from across the region highlighted the importance of collaboration between science parks, universities, industry and government to accelerate innovation with lasting social and economic impact. As Hao Tang put it, "we are the solution, but only if we work together". 

Discussions explored how innovation ecosystems are responding to global challenges, from the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence to climate adaptation, the circular economy and clean energy. While technology featured prominently throughout the programme, speakers repeatedly stressed that innovation should remain centred on people, creating solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities and generate inclusive growth. As CMU STeP Director Pitiwat Wattanachai noted, "technology has value only when it improves human life". 

The conference also provided an opportunity for IASP members from across the region to exchange experiences and strengthen professional connections, with participation from organisations including Zhongguancun Science Park, Thailand Science Park, Prince of Songkla University Science Park, Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ), Thai-BISPA, Melbourne Innovation District - RMIT University, Innovation Area Development Partnership, and many others. Participants also had the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into Chiang Mai's innovation ecosystem through technical visits to the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) and the Regional Science Park North.  

The event reflected the Asia Pacific Division's continued commitment to strengthening regional collaboration while connecting local innovation ecosystems to global opportunities, reinforcing IASP's mission of fostering international cooperation through science parks and innovation districts. 

We congratulate CMU STeP for hosting such a valuable gathering and look forward to building on the momentum generated during these three days of dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration, as many of these conversations continue at a broader level at the IASP World Conference in France this October.