The session discussed how the Triple Helix model of innovation, involving universities and education institutions, industry, and government, can work in the Southeast Asia region. The session featured representatives from each “helix” to discuss how they are playing a transformative role in TVET in their respective countries, and which additional actors can enhance innovation (Quadruple helix- investor/venture capital; civil society).

Moderator: Yumiko Yamakawa, Principal Education Specialist, Human and Social Development, ADB

The session featured ADB-supported projects in South Asia, showcasing how project teams and leaders are turning ideas into impact through innovation and collaboration.

Moderator: Gi Soon Song, Director, Human and Social Development, ADB

Speakers:

• Khushboo Chowdhary, IAS, Secretary to the Government, Department of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka

The session featured ADB-supported projects in the Pacific Region, showcasing how project teams and leaders are turning ideas into impact through innovation and collaboration.

Moderator: Shamit Chakravarti, Director, Human and Social Development, ADB

Speakers: 

An interactive session featuring ADB-supported projects in the countries of each region and their partnering ministries, showcasing how project teams and leaders are turning ideas into impact through innovation and collaboration. This interactive session highlighted ADB-supported projects across multiple countries and their partnering ministries. Project teams and leaders shared how they are transforming innovative ideas into impactful results, demonstrating country-led approaches and lessons that inspire collaboration and cross-country learning.

Highlighting collaboration among academia, industry, and government, this session examines how the “Triple Helix” model drives innovation, accelerates research commercialization, and builds a skilled workforce in emerging sectors. Through case studies and expert insights, participants will explore practical strategies for fostering effective multi-sector partnerships that deliver real-world impact.

Across Asia and the Pacific, green infrastructure investments risk underperforming without parallel development of the workforce, skills, and institutions needed to support them. This session explores how green infrastructure investments can deliver their full climate and development impact by developing the right human capital.

This session presents the journey and key outcomes of the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS) 2025, highlighting flagship events, regional collaborations, and lessons learned from South–South and international experiences. Outgoing and incoming ASEAN Chairs will discuss priority actions for advancing skills and workforce development in the region, while partners including ADB will share reflections and support plans. Participants will gain insights into shaping the future ASEAN workforce and leveraging AYOS momentum for 2026 and beyond.

This panel unites EU policymakers, VET associations, and a Center for Vocational Excellence (COVE) to explore how COVEs drive innovation, strengthen skills ecosystems, and enhance vocational education quality. The session also highlights the EU’s strategic framework and practical tools for fostering international collaboration and sustainable VET development.

Discover how ADB’s flagship scholarship and fellowship programs—the ADB-Japan Scholarship, ADB-ROK Scholarship, and ADB-Korea Fellowship—are shaping the next generation of leaders across Asia and the Pacific. This session will highlight how these partnerships enable students, faculty, and officials from developing member countries to gain advanced knowledge, practical skills, and global perspectives. Learn how ADB and its partners invest in people to drive inclusive and sustainable development in the region.

As emerging technologies like AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, and renewable energy rapidly transform industries, education and training systems must develop skilled talent sustainably while balancing relevance, accessibility, and innovation to remain globally competitive.