Mary Immaculate College (MIC) recently welcomed international education professionals, researchers and policymakers from across Ireland and beyond for the Irish Association for International Education (IAIE) Conference 2026.
Held from 10-12 June, the conference explored the theme ‘Resilience in International Education: Navigating a Changing World’, providing a platform for discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing higher education in an increasingly complex global landscape.
The three-day programme featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, research presentations and networking events focused on enhancing the student and staff experience, innovations in transnational education, equity, inclusion and global responsibility in internationalisation.
A highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Dr Darla K. Deardorff, UNESCO Chair on Intercultural Competence at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, who examined the role of intercultural competence in navigating global change and strengthening international education.
Delegates also explored topics including Universities of Sanctuary, European University Alliances, international student supports, ethical internationalisation, transnational education partnerships and the future direction of international education policy in Ireland.
The conference concluded with a roundtable discussion featuring representatives from key higher education and government agencies, examining the future of international education in Ireland and the role of collaboration in building a resilient and globally connected sector.
Dr Holly Cowman, Director of International Engagement at MIC, said:
“It was a privilege for MIC to host colleagues from across Ireland and overseas for this year’s IAIE Conference. The discussions throughout the conference highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing international education, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration, inclusion and innovation. As higher education continues to evolve, building resilience and meaningful global partnerships will be essential to ensuring that internationalisation continues to enrich the experiences of students, staff and wider communities and having a forum like the IAIE to share ideas and best practices is invaluable.”
