Dear Colleagues and Friends,

On behalf of the Organising Committee, it is our great pleasure to introduce the theme for the Asia Pacific Medical Education Conference (APMEC) 2027:

"The Wisdom of Imperfection: Learning Beyond Efficiency – Tips ● Issues ● Priorities ● Strategies”

This theme invites us to seek balance in our approach to medical education. Just as the Japanese aesthetic, In Praise of Shadows, celebrates the beauty found in subtle contrast, we as educators shall seek pathways between light and shadow, between completion and incompletion—to nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals.

In an era that often prioritises efficiency and measurable outcomes, this theme reminds us that true learning embraces uncertainty, values the process of becoming, and finds wisdom in the spaces between perfection and progress. It calls us to recognise that the most profound educational experiences often emerge not from flawless execution, but from thoughtful reflection on challenges, failures, and the courage to remain curious.

We warmly invite healthcare professionals, educators, scholars, students, policy makers and leaders from academia, healthcare, and both the public and private sectors to join us in Kyoto, Japan—where wisdom and beauty intertwine. Together, we will explore how embracing imperfection can lead to more resilient, compassionate, and adaptable healthcare professionals.

Our programme will feature inspiring keynote addresses, interactive panel discussions, and presentations showcasing educational scholarship and best practices. More than just a conference, APMEC 2027 is a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and the co-creation of strategies that honour both excellence and the valuable lessons found in our imperfections.

We encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity not only to learn and share knowledge but to connect with like-minded colleagues from Asia and around the world, forge new partnerships, and inspire positive change.

Thank you for your dedication to advancing health professions education. In Kyoto, let us come together to shape the future of medical education—together.

We look forward to welcoming you to APMEC 2027!

With best wishes