HEPN South 2026 Agenda

The agenda is shaped around the biggest opportunities and challenges facing higher education today. Expect sessions covering strategy and leadership, student outcomes and experience, digital transformation and AI, workforce and culture, operational effectiveness, institutional sustainability, data and cyber security, policy and regulation, and the future role of universities in society.

You’ll hear practical case studies from vice-chancellors, senior leaders, academics, and sector experts on topics including student success, lifelong learning, international recruitment, digital-first operating models, organisational transformation, AI-enabled education, workforce resilience, governance, and collaborative approaches to sector-wide challenges. The programme is developed in response to delegate feedback and registration insights, ensuring discussions remain focused on the priorities that matter most to higher education leaders right now.

The event runs over two days with a mix of main room presentations, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and Dragons' Den speed pitches. You'll hear from senior leaders across the higher education sector sharing real case studies, followed by solution provider presentations showing what's possible. There's also dedicated time for one-to-one meetings, networking lunch, drinks reception, and a networking dinner – giving you plenty of opportunities to connect beyond the formal sessions.

Yes. While main room presentations are open to all delegates, you can select which breakout sessions are most relevant to your institution's current challenges and priorities. Your pre-booked one-to-one meetings are scheduled around the agenda, and you'll have flexibility to attend the sessions that matter most to you.

Yes. You'll also get access to the conference guide with speaker profiles, case studies, and sponsor information. After the event, all delegates receive digital copies of the presentations.

We strongly recommend attending the full two-day event to get maximum value. The agenda is designed so that key themes develop across both days, and your pre-booked meetings are spread throughout the event. That said, if you can only attend one day, let us know during registration and we'll work with you to schedule your meetings and ensure you don't miss the sessions most relevant to your priorities.