SMU Positions Singapore as a Regional Hub for Scholarly Communication
Singapore Management University is set to host a significant gathering focused on the future of research communications. The university will welcome participants for the FORCE2026 conference from 3 to 5 June 2026, marking the first time this international event takes place in Asia. Alongside the main conference, SMU will also host DataCite Connect Singapore 2026 on 5 June 2026 from 14:00 to 17:00 at the Kwa Geok Choo Law Library.
This co-located arrangement highlights SMU's growing role in advancing discussions on scholarly practices within Singapore's higher education sector. Researchers, librarians, publishers, and other stakeholders from across the region and beyond are expected to engage in conversations about persistent identifiers, data sharing, and collaborative opportunities in academic publishing.
Understanding the FORCE2026 Conference at SMU
FORCE2026, organized by FORCE11, carries the theme "To Go Far, Go Together: Advancing Scholarly Communication Across Boundaries and Disruptions." The event brings together experts to explore challenges and opportunities in research communications. SMU's selection as the host venue underscores the university's commitment to fostering global dialogue on these topics from a Singapore base.
Participants will examine how scholarly communication evolves amid technological changes and international collaborations. The conference format encourages cross-boundary interactions, aligning with Singapore's emphasis on innovation in higher education institutions.
DataCite Connect Singapore 2026: A Dedicated Forum
DataCite Connect Singapore 2026 serves as a satellite event directly following the main FORCE2026 proceedings. Held in the Learning Labs 3 and 4 of the Kwa Geok Choo Law Library at SMU, the session runs for three hours and is open to DataCite members as well as the wider community.
The gathering provides a platform to discuss best practices in data citation, identify collaboration opportunities, and offer direct feedback on DataCite services. Registration for this event is separate from the main conference and does not require FORCE2026 registration, making it accessible to a broader audience interested in research data management.
The Role of SMU Libraries in Facilitating the Events
SMU Libraries have actively promoted both events through dedicated insights and resources. Their involvement ensures that the university community, including faculty and students, can fully participate in discussions shaping the future of academic publishing and data practices.
By hosting these activities on campus, SMU Libraries contribute to building capacity in scholarly communication skills among Singapore's higher education professionals. This aligns with broader institutional goals of supporting research excellence and open science initiatives.
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Significance for Singapore Higher Education
The hosting of FORCE2026 and the associated DataCite Connect event at SMU represents an important milestone for Singapore's universities. It positions local institutions at the forefront of international conversations on research integrity, data stewardship, and publishing standards.
Singapore's higher education landscape benefits from such gatherings, which facilitate knowledge exchange between local academics and global experts. Events like these can inspire new collaborations and strengthen the region's contribution to worldwide scholarly networks.
Exploring DataCite and Its Relevance to Research Data
DataCite is an organization dedicated to providing persistent identifiers, primarily Digital Object Identifiers or DOIs, for research datasets and other scholarly outputs. This infrastructure supports proper citation, discovery, and reuse of data across disciplines.
In the context of the Singapore event, discussions will likely center on how DataCite services can better serve Asian research communities. Participants will explore practical applications for universities seeking to enhance data management practices and meet international standards for research transparency.
FORCE11 and the Broader Scholarly Communication Ecosystem
FORCE11, the organization behind the main conference, focuses on the future of research communications and e-scholarship. Its annual gatherings address evolving needs in academic publishing, including open access models, peer review processes, and technological integrations.
The 2026 edition at SMU emphasizes collective advancement across disruptions, reflecting current global priorities in higher education. Singapore's role as host highlights the country's strategic position in connecting Asian perspectives with international best practices.
Practical Details for Participation
Interested individuals can register for DataCite Connect Singapore 2026 through the official DataCite event page. The session has a capacity limit and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a code of conduct in place to ensure productive discussions.
While the main FORCE2026 conference involves registration fees with early bird and standard rates available, the DataCite Connect event remains free. This structure allows broader access for those focused specifically on data citation topics.
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Implications for Researchers and Librarians in Singapore
Faculty, researchers, and library professionals at Singapore universities stand to gain valuable insights from attending these events. Topics such as best practices in data citation and feedback mechanisms for service improvement directly support daily work in research support and academic publishing.
Participation can lead to enhanced institutional policies on research data management, fostering a more robust environment for scholarly output in the city-state's higher education institutions.
Looking Ahead: Building on This Momentum
The co-location of DataCite Connect Singapore 2026 with FORCE2026 at SMU sets a precedent for future regional events in scholarly communication. It demonstrates how Singapore universities can leverage international partnerships to elevate local research ecosystems.
As the dates approach, SMU and its libraries continue to provide updates, encouraging engagement from the academic community. This initiative reinforces Singapore's reputation as a forward-thinking hub for higher education innovation and global collaboration.
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