South Asia is at the cusp of change.Aside from being blessed with abundant natural resources, itis one of the world's most densely-populated regions,being home to over 1.6 billion people. Most importantly, ithad experienced rapid population growth and is now home to atalented young population. At the same time, SouthAsia's economy is booming. The South Asian countriesshare many similar characteristics, in their political,societal and cultural, DNAs'. One common feature isthat these countries experienced a rapid expansion of theirhigher education sector in recent decades. This is notsurprising, given the increasing quality, access andaffordability of primary and secondary education. This ismatched concurrently by the region's strong economicgrowth resulting in higher demand for skilled labor.