Dear TIRF Supporters & Trustees,

As I reflect on the successful conclusion of the AI for English Language Education International Summit 2026 (AI4ELE 2026), held October 24–25 in Zhuhai, China, I am filled with appreciation for the meaningful conversations, thoughtful exchanges, and collaborative spirit that characterized this important gathering. Jointly organized by TIRF and Beijing Normal–Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU), the Summit brought together more than 150 educators, researchers, institutional leaders, and industry professionals united by a shared interest in the future of English language education (ELE).

Artificial intelligence is transforming our field at an extraordinary pace. Yet, as our discussions throughout the Summit demonstrated, the most important questions are not simply about what AI technologies can accomplish, but how we can harness their potential responsibly, equitably, and effectively to support language teaching, learning, and assessment. Events such as AI4ELE provide an essential forum for exploring these questions, bringing research and practice into conversation while ensuring that educators remain central to shaping the future of our profession.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our four distinguished keynote speakers: Dr. Mariano Felice of the British Council, Professor Tianqing Zhu of City University of Macau, Professor Zhong Chen of BNBU, and Professor Yueting Xu of South China Normal University. Their presentations offered valuable perspectives on AI-driven language assessment, the changing landscape of English education, AI-supported teaching models, and the evolving role of teacher feedback literacy. Together with the Summit’s interactive workshops and professional exchanges, their contributions reminded us that technological innovation must be guided by sound research, pedagogical expertise, and a commitment to meaningful learning.

I was also particularly pleased that two recipients of TIRF’s Doctoral Dissertation Grants participated in the Summit: Professor Yueting Xu (Professor, South China Normal University) and Professor Marcella Caprario (Assistant Professor, Wenzhou-Kean University). Their participation reflects the lasting value of TIRF’s investment in emerging scholars and the important contributions our awardees continue to make to the advancement of English language education. Seeing members of the TIRF research community contributing to discussions at the forefront of our field is especially gratifying.

Our sincere appreciation also goes to Prince Education, Pearson, and Scilight for their generous sponsorship and support. I am equally grateful to our dedicated colleagues at BNBU, whose commitment, professionalism, and hard work were instrumental in making this international gathering possible. Their partnership with TIRF demonstrates what can be accomplished when institutions work together toward a shared educational vision.

For TIRF, AI4ELE represents more than a successful international event. It reflects our determination to play a pioneering role in advancing English language education in the age of AI. As new technologies continue to challenge established practices and open new possibilities, our mission of connecting research, policy, and practice becomes more relevant than ever. We have both an opportunity and a responsibility to help ensure that innovation is informed by evidence, guided by ethical considerations, and ultimately directed toward improving educational experiences and outcomes for learners worldwide.

I look forward to building on the ideas, partnerships, and momentum generated in Zhuhai as TIRF continues working with colleagues around the world to shape a thoughtful, inclusive, and promising future for English language education.

Warm regards,

Jun Liu, PhD

TIRF President