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International Disability Inclusion Symposium

(IDIS)

The International Disability Inclusion Symposium (IDIS) on Higher Education and Career is a platform that brings
s

together countries from the ASEAN and the Pacific region to exchange knowledge and share progress toward

es
disability inclusion. It is the first initiative of its kind in this region focusspecifically on higher education and career
development for individuals with disabilities. The symposium is a collaborative effort between the Platform of Higher
Education and Disability (PHED) project at the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The
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,
re

i

University of TokyoAUNDPPnet from UniversitMalaya and the Centon Disability Studies at the University of Hawai‘i
at Mānoa.

The first collaboration began duringthe 1stIDIS in 2018dedicated to higher education and career development for
,

individuals with disabilities. Through AUNDPPnet’s involvement, the ASEAN region’s perspectives and best practices
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were shared on an international stage, fostering collaboration among universities, researchers, and disability
advocates.

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.
AUN
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IDIS
The partnership continued to strengthen over the years, with AUNDPPnet consistently playing a key role in

DPPnetcontributed significantly by sourcingkeynote speakers, country panellists, employer representatives, and

student presenters. Through these active engagements, AUNDPPnet reinforced its position as a driving force in
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regional dialogue on inclusive education and employment for
.
PWDs

The partnership reached a new height the fifth symposium (IDIS 5), which was held physically at the University
during
“
and Career

–
of Tokyo onDecember 13, 2024. The theme, Student Leadership Development in Higher Education
Transition,” emphasised the importance of empowering student leaders in promoting inclusive practices within their

institutions.

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AUNDPPnet sent nine representatives, including scholars with and without disabilities, alumni, and executive

members, demonstrating the etwork’s commitment fostering inclusive leadership. The symposium attracted
had
in
N
181 participants, both physically and online, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation.
Although alumni participation was below 80% due to work commitments and weekday scheduling, the symposium

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was widely featured across the AUN website, AUNDPPnet platform, and The Nippon Foundation Scholars Association

(TNFSA) portal.

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