Higher Education and Student Short-Term Mobility in ASEAN Countries: Current Trends and Priorities - A Case of Passage to ASEAN

In the twenty-first century, international student mobility is among the most notable phenomena in Higher Education. While the current literature on its opportunities and challenges is still expanding, the majority of research recognizes its transformative potential along with a costly barrier to entry for most students. Long-term student mobility also takes priority in most scholarly works, despite the growing demand for short-term exchanges. Among the organizations seeking to alleviate said challenge and foster human capital is Passage to ASEAN (P2A) Network, a regional organization of Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs), businesses and government agencies in Southeast Asia. P2A has, since its inception, been dedicated to fostering academic exchanges, cultural understanding, collaboration prospects, and technological integration among ASEAN member IHEs. This study explores the P2A Network’s structure, its goals and impacts on regional education, especially tourism and technology, and its potential to further enhance collaborations in the region. This study employs a mixed-method approach, synthesizing document analysis and stakeholder interviews. P2A published material is closely examined and combined with emerging themes from a total of 12 interviews with individuals who have worked with P2A. This study highlights Passage to ASEAN’s role in expanding accessible Short-Term Mobility (STM) through cultural exchanges and virtual programs. By reducing cost barriers and leveraging online platforms, P2A has successfully increased participation and provided valuable educational benefits. These findings offer insights into effective STM models and serve as a reference for institutions aiming to enhance their mobility initiatives.