THE Latin America Universities Summit 2026

Building on the success of previous editions, the THE Latin America Universities Summit 2026 will once again bring together university leaders, policymakers and industry voices to shape the future of higher education across the region.

We are delighted to be heading to Barranquilla, in Colombia, which has evolved from a traditional port city into a regional innovation ecosystem, blending history, culture, education and technology. Its transformation is rooted in a legacy of early modernisation and has been enriched by a vibrant and diverse cultural identity.

Against this backdrop, the summit will explore how higher education can drive institutional excellence and regional impact by addressing the risks and opportunities of digital transformation in higher education - from AI and cybersecurity to digital equity and access.

Don't miss your chance to stay ahead of the conversation and be part of the next chapter of leadership and innovation in Latin America.

Agenda themes we will explore:
- Innovation across disciplines:
Digital transformation is redefining higher education across Latin America and the Caribbean. This theme will explore how universities can harness AI and emerging technologies not only as tools of modernisation, but as catalysts for equity, inclusion and structural change. Institutions will share strategies for developing digital and interdisciplinary skills, closing territorial access gaps, and driving innovation that addresses social challenges such as climate change, health equity and poverty.

- Purpose and power: Strength in partnerships
In a globally connected yet regionally diverse landscape, alliances are key to advancing innovation and sustainable development. This theme will examine how universities can forge strategic partnerships - across academia, industry, government and civil society - to translate knowledge into tangible social and economic impact. By leveraging Latin America’s cultural and scientific diversity, institutions can promote mobility, entrepreneurship, and inclusion while integrating technologies such as AI for community well-being.

- Governance in motion
Strong, adaptive governance is essential for universities navigating the ethical and institutional complexities of transformation. Universities must embed transparency and social responsibility into decision-making while safeguarding academic freedom and public trust. This theme will discuss frameworks for ethical AI governance, data integrity and responsible innovation that reflect regional diversity and autonomy, and position Latin America as a global leader in ethical, inclusive and future-ready higher education.

Venue Details: Corporacion Universidad De La Costa, CUC, #55 - 66 Calle 58, Barranquilla, Atlantico, 080002, Colombia