We are delighted to unveil the preliminary programme for the Asiera Conference 2026, taking place from Tuesday 3 to Thursday 5 November at the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, Co. Kerry.
As the first conference under the Asiera name, this year’s event marks an exciting new chapter, building on the strong legacy of the HEAnet Conference and bringing together colleagues from across Ireland’s education and research community.
The programme has been developed to reflect the opportunities and challenges that continue to shape our sector, with a strong focus on cybersecurity, digital transformation, sustainable infrastructure, data capabilities, artificial intelligence and international collaboration.
Delegates can look forward to a mix of thought-provoking keynote presentations, practical sessions, opportunities for discussion and, importantly, plenty of time to connect and share experiences with colleagues and industry partners.
We are particularly delighted to welcome Mark Little, one of Ireland’s leading media and technology voices, as a keynote speaker. Mark will bring his unique perspective on technology, innovation and the rapidly changing digital landscape.
Highlights from the 2026 Programme
The programme will explore a diverse range of topics, including:
- Cybersecurity and resilience – examining the evolving threat landscape and protecting our education and research community.
- Digital transformation – exploring how technology and digital services continue to shape education and research.
- Artificial Intelligence – considering the opportunities and challenges presented by AI across the sector.
- Data capabilities – exploring the growing importance of data, infrastructure and informed decision-making.
- Sustainable infrastructure – looking at how we can build resilient and future-focused digital infrastructure.
- International collaboration – sharing perspectives, experiences and best practice from Ireland and beyond.
Alongside these featured themes, delegates will have the opportunity to hear from Asiera teams and take part in a range of network and security workshops, with dedicated sessions taking place in the Frederick Room throughout Day One.
More Than Just a Conference
The Asiera Conference is about more than presentations and panel discussions. It is an opportunity to meet colleagues, make new connections and engage with the wider Asiera community that makes this event unique.
This year’s programme also includes a range of activities beyond the main conference sessions, offering plenty of opportunities to connect, unwind and experience something different. Be sure to register your interest in these activities during the registration process.
- Welcome New Joiners Mingle – an informal opportunity for first-time attendees to meet the Asiera team and make new connections.
- Guided Walking Tour of Killarney – a chance to step away from the conference programme and explore Killarney in a relaxed setting.
- 5K Fun Run – start Thursday morning with some fresh air and a choice of running, walking in the beautiful Killarney National Park.
- Asiera Gala Dinner – brings together, exhibitors sponsors and delegates for an evening of networking and celebration.
- Yoga For All Levels with Kelly Ann MacSweeney
Take time to stretch, unwind, and reset before joining colleagues for the evening’s Gala Dinner. - Want to extend your stay?
The Great Southern Hotel are offering the Asiera Conference attendees a preferred overnight rate, enquire directly with the hotel for this offer.
Early Bird Registration Closes 1 September 2026
If you have not yet registered, we encourage you to secure your place and accommodation in Killarney early, to secure your preferred accommodation.
Register here for the Asiera Conference 2026 | Early Bird
The Asiera Conference 2026 preliminary programme is now available, with further details on speakers, sessions and workshops to follow.
View the Asiera Conference 2026 Preliminary Programme here.
We look forward to reconnecting with colleagues from across Ireland’s education and research community, and welcoming new attendees to Killarney this November for three days of insight, collaboration, knowledge sharing and community.
We look forward to Welcoming everyone to the Asiera Conference 2026.