How APSEM is governed
APSEM is governed through five interconnected bodies, each with distinct roles, operating under a shared framework of accountability, transparency, and member-driven governance.
Five bodies, one integrated system
Decisions flow from the General Assembly downward: the GA sets the strategic direction, the Governing Board translates it into operational guidance, and the Committees and Secretariat implement it.
| Body | Role | Accountable to |
|---|---|---|
| General Assembly | Supreme decision-making body | All members |
| Governing Board | Strategic governance between GAs | General Assembly |
| Committees (3) | Thematic working bodies | Governing Board & GA |
| Secretariat Office | Administrative & operational arm | Governing Board |
| Advisory Council | Independent strategic guidance | Appointed by GA; engaged by GB |
What each body does
General Assembly
The supreme decision-making body of APSEM, composed of member representatives. It provides overarching direction and legitimacy to the Association, approves its strategic direction and policies, elects the Governing Board, and decides on matters of major importance.
Governing Board
Governs the Association between General Assemblies. It provides strategic leadership, reviews and approves institutional membership, ensures decisions are implemented across all bodies, and reports to the General Assembly.
Committees
The thematic working bodies of APSEM, carrying out the Association’s programmatic work: the Recognition and Accreditation Committee (Quality & Standards), the Capacity Building Committee (Capacity & Learning), and the Research, Advocacy, and Policy Committee (Recognition & Advocacy).
See their workSecretariat Office
The administrative and operational arm of APSEM — day-to-day coordination, communication, membership records, and support to all bodies. It is the first point of contact for members, applicants, and partners.
Contact the SecretariatAdvisory Council
An independent consultative body of recognized experts in education and related fields. It provides strategic guidance and advice to the Governing Board and Secretariat, and does not hold decision-making authority.
Member-driven by design
The Association is led by its members: representatives are delegated by member institutions, governance bodies are elected from the membership, and every body is accountable upward to the General Assembly.
About membershipDetailed rules
The detailed composition, terms, meeting procedures, code of conduct, and conflict-of-interest rules of each body are set out in the APSEM Charter and Terms of Reference. Full access to these documents is available to member institutions and their registered representatives.
Want to take part in APSEM’s governance?
Member institutions participate in the General Assembly and may stand for the Governing Board and Committees, subject to their membership category.