LTU Summit 2025 addresses tropical region development challenges

The League of Tropical Universities Summit 2025 launched Monday at Hainan University, uniting educators and researchers from 107 governments, international organizations, and academic institutions, including 49 LTU members from 26 countries, to tackle development challenges in tropical regions.

Under the theme "Extensive Consultation, Joint Contribution, and Shared Benefits", discussions centered on digital education, agriculture, health, and green development.

The LTU released its first white paper detailing the coalition's progress since its founding in 2023. The document highlights case studies and data on education and technology sharing, offering what organizers call a "solution from tropical regions" for global education governance.

A separate report, the Collection of LTU Knowledge Transfer Projects, was also unveiled, featuring more than 120 scientific innovations in agriculture, ecology, and information technology. The LTU Secretariat said the publication will help promote technological breakthroughs to address real-world challenges in tropical areas.

Hainan University also announced scholarships and exchange programs for member institutions.

Key agreements were signed during the summit, including a memorandum of understanding between Hainan University and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, as well as agreements with universities from Malaysia, Zimbabwe, Thailand, and Singapore.

Alongside the summit, 55 young scholars from 17 countries participated in leadership and cultural programs, exploring the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

Founded in 2023, the LTU aims to turn tropical resources into sustainable development opportunities. It now includes 101 members from 41 countries and regions.