Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia - Organized by Asian University Sports Federation (AUSF) and the Mongolian Student Sports Federation (MSSF), and supported by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the inaugural AUSF Regional Development Program was successfully held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on October 20-21, bringing together representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, who shared their insights, addressing challenges, and fostering collaboration in the development of university sports throughout the region and beyond.

The 2-day program featured reports and discussions on a wide range of topics, including the current status of student sports development, physical education initiatives, student athletic achievements, and strategies to enhance regional participation in continental and global university sports events. A key outcome was the exploration of establishing a stronger relationship within Central Asia and with AUSF to achieve deeper involvement and further cooperation.

As Dr. LIU Lixin, the AUSF president, emphasized online in the welcome message, “It is a milestone we have nurtured for a long time, representing the fundamental belief of AUSF to expand the power of university sports to reach every corner of Asia and every one of our members”.

AUSF also expressed its deepest gratitude to FISU for its ongoing support to AUSF and to this important initiative. FISU Healthy Campus Program was also introduced during the program, generating strong interest among participants and underscoring the shared commitment to student well-being and sports development. Besides, the AUSF Medical Commission meeting was also included, further highlighting the integrated approach to health and sports promotion.

As President LIU says, “We start here, and our journey does not end here. We envision this program traveling, growing, and expanding to all the 5 dynamic regions of Asia and to all members of AUSF. The successful launch of the AUSF Regional Development Program in Ulaanbaatar marks a promising step toward a brighter, more connected future for university sports within Asia, strengthening regional ties and setting a strong foundation for continued growth and collaboration.”

(Source: AUSF Secretariat)