APRU programs dedicated to university Leadership & Capacity are designed to foster collaboration and innovation among leading universities across the Pacific Rim. These programs focus on addressing critical global challenges through interdisciplinary research and education. By leveraging the collective expertise of its member institutions, APRU aims to develop practical solutions and build capacity to address the challenges they face.

These programs are shaped by the strategic priorities of providing a neutral platform for high-level policy dialogue, exploring innovative solutions for a sustainable future, and supporting diversity and inclusion. These priorities guide the development of various initiatives, such as the Asia Pacific Women in Leadership (APWiL) program, which promotes gender equity and leadership opportunities for women in academia. Additionally, programs such as the Indigenous and First Nations Knowledges facilitate cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange among students and researchers.

In his article for the Global Solutions Journal, Thomas Schneider discusses the concept of the “meta university,” which aligns closely with the goals of APRU Leadership & Capacity Programs. The meta university is envisioned as a distributed and decentralized network of universities that share resources and knowledge in both physical and virtual spaces. This model aims to increase access, affordability, and learning effectiveness, while also fostering new systems thinking by integrating diverse perspectives. By adopting the meta university approach, APRU Leadership & Capacity Programs can further enhance their collaborative efforts and contribute to solving complex global issues through a more interconnected and inclusive educational framework.