Date: June 21–22, 2025 Location: Hong Kong Metropolitan University
PEACE-Physiotherapy Education and Cultural Exchange
Physiotherapy Education and Cultural Exchange (PEACE) is an international event designed to bring together physical therapy students from across Asia for an enriching experience of knowledge-sharing and cross-cultural interaction. Organized by the Asian Physical Therapy Student Association (APTSA), PEACE provides a platform for future physiotherapists to engage in academic discussions, practical learning, and cultural exchange, all while fostering international collaboration in the field of physiotherapy.
With each edition, PEACE continues to grow, offering participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of physiotherapy practices in different countries, develop essential professional skills, and build lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds. Through expert-led sessions, interactive case studies, and cultural immersion activities, PEACE aims to inspire students to think globally and contribute to the advancement of physiotherapy on an international scale.
By participating in PEACE, students not only enhance their academic and professional competencies but also gain valuable insights into global healthcare perspectives—preparing them to become well-rounded and culturally aware physiotherapists in the future.
The history of PEACE:
PEACE#1(2021) :IPSA(Indonesia)-HKPC(Hongkong)
PEACE#2(2024) : IPSA(Indonesia)-PTMU SA(Tailand)
PEACE#3 (2025) : IPSA(Indonesia)-ISUPTSA(Taiwan)-JPTSA(Japan)
PEACE#4 (2026) : upcoming
HKPC-Hong Kong Physiotherapy Concern
Hong Kong Physiotherapy Concern (HKPC) is a government-registered association formed by physiotherapy students, established in May 2000, dedicated to advocating for the rights of the physiotherapy profession.
The organization currently has over a thousand registered members, including licensed physiotherapists and physiotherapy students. Facing challenges of uncertain job prospects and limited development opportunities, HKPC aims to enhance the understanding of the physiotherapy profession among students and the public by collecting relevant information and organizing promotional activities. This effort seeks to expand the professional landscape of physiotherapy and safeguard the rights of its members.
JPTSA- Japan Physical Therapy Student Association
What is JPTSA?
The origins of JPTSA date back to 2004.
A student from Kobe University, during their clinical training, began to question, "Is the education I'm receiving truly sufficient?" This thought led to discussions during a post-practicum gathering, where students concluded: "How do other universities approach this?"
Following this realization, students from Hiroshima University and Prefectural University of Hiroshima came together for a social gathering. Through these discussions, they shared their concerns and decided to establish a "student exchange forum"—a space where students could connect and share their perspectives. This initiative led to the foundation of the Japan Physical Therapy Student Association (JPTSA).
JPTSA is a student-led organization aimed at increasing opportunities for communication and information exchange among students aspiring to become physical therapists. By fostering such interactions, the association seeks to broaden students' perspectives, enhance awareness of physical therapy, and promote knowledge-sharing. The structure of JPTSA is outlined below.
The primary activity of JPTSA is exchange meetings, which are held several times a year at various universities. Additionally, to further strengthen its activities, JPTSA is expanding its scope by publishing newsletters and engaging in other initiatives.
Structure of JPTSA
Japan Physical Therapy Student
Board Member Universities:
Kobe University
Kio University
Kyoto University
Tohoku Fukushi University
Prefectural University of Hiroshima
Hiroshima University
Nagoya University
Bunkyo Gakuin University
Hokkaido University
Kibi International University
Kagoshima University
Regional Branches and Representative Universities
Hokkaido Branch
Board Member: Hokkaido University
Tohoku Branch
Board Member: Tohoku Fukushi University
Kanto Branch
Board Member: Bunkyo Gakuin University
Chubu Branch
Board Member: Nagoya University
Kansai Branch
Board Members: Kobe University, Kio University, Kyoto University
Chugoku & Shikoku Branch
Board Members: Prefectural University of Hiroshima, Hiroshima University, Kibi International University
Kyushu Branch
Board Member: Kagoshima University
JPTSA International Department
JPTSA International Department
JPTSA International Department (originally APTSA- Japan) work alongside JPTSA and JPTA (Japan Physical Therapy Association). Its role is to share information about Japanese physical therapy students and professionals with Asia, while also bringing back valuable insights from Asia to Japan.
JPTSA International Department is now expanding its efforts beyond Asia, aiming to connect with the global physical therapy community through study tours, seminars, and exchange programs.
Main Activities of JPTSA International Department
Participation in the APTSA Congress:
JPTSA International Department members take part in the annual APTSA Student Congress, engaging in presentations, discussions, and networking events.
Organizing and Conducting Study Tours:
Study tours have been conducted in Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, and the United States. Future tours aim to help students broaden their perspectives, prepare for studying abroad, and acquire new knowledge.
Hosting International Seminars:
Seminars on topics such as "Studying Abroad" and "Physical Therapy in the U.S." are organized to share international insights with Japanese students.
Expanding International Networks:
JPTSA International Department collaborates not only within Asia but also with European institutions such as those in France, through JPTSA.
Participation in Domestic & International Conferences:
2012: Attended the 1st Japan-Korea Joint Conference, presenting four research posters by Japanese students.
2013: Participated in the AWP-ACPT International Conference in Taiwan, submitting research presentations.
Benefits of Joining JPTSA International Department
By participating in Congress, international conferences, study tours, and seminars, students can:
Engage in academic activities in English (oral presentations, poster presentations, discussions) while also enjoying daily conversations abroad.
Gain new perspectives and personal growth by directly experiencing differences between Japan and other countries.
Connect with fellow physical therapy students worldwide, exchanging ideas and inspiration.
Develop unique experiences that set them apart from other future physical therapists.
JPTSA International Department continues to provide valuable international experiences for physical therapy students, fostering global connections and professional development.
MPTSA-Malaysia Physiotherapy Student Association
The Malaysia Physiotherapy Student Association (MPTSA) is a non-governmental organization that was established on September 16th, 2015. Our organization is comprised of physiotherapy students from various universities throughout Malaysia, including MAHSA, AIMST, INTI, UTAR, UKM, UoC, UiTM, UniSZA, UniKL, IIUM, UiTM, IIUM, UNISZA, PICOMS, etc.
As a student association, our primary objective is to foster connections among physiotherapy students throughout the country. We achieve this by organizing a variety of physiotherapy-related events, workshops, lecture talks, and sharing sessions, among other activities.
We also offer our members opportunities to attend national and international physiotherapy events and participate in student exchange programs. These experiences enable our members to expand their networks and connect with other physiotherapy students from universities both within Malaysia and beyond its borders.
In addition to connecting with students, we also establish valuable connections with other physiotherapy organizations, including the Asia Physical Therapy Student Association (APTSA) and Malaysia Physiotherapy Association (MPA). Through these connections, we are able to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field of physiotherapy and gain deeper insights into this important area of study.
SPASC-Singapore Physiotherapy Association Student Council
The Singapore Physiotherapy Association Student Council (SPASC) is a dedicated, student-led body from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) committed to fostering the growth and professional development of future physiotherapists.
Through a diverse range of events, workshops, and networking opportunities, we equip students with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed for a smooth transition into the workforce.
By collaborating with the Singapore Physiotherapy Association (SPA) and other industry partners, we play a vital role in strengthening the local physiotherapy community. With a strong emphasis on education, career readiness, and professional advocacy, we strive to empower students to become confident and capable practitioners who will make a meaningful impact in the field of physiotherapy in Singapore.
TPTSA-Taiwan Physical Therapy Student Association
The Taiwan Physical Therapy Student Association (TPTSA) was established in 2010 (Republic of China Year 99) as an independent, non-political, and non-profit national student organization. It is primarily composed of students from physical therapy departments at various universities and colleges across Taiwan.
Mission and Objectives
The objectives of TPTSA include:
Promoting academic and extracurricular exchange among physical therapy students nationwide.
Safeguarding and advocating for the rights of physical therapy students.
Bridging the gap between academic education and clinical career development.
Representing Taiwanese physical therapy students in international affairs.
Membership Categories
TPTSA membership is divided into the following categories:
Regular Members: All enrolled physical therapy students.
Department Members: Student associations from different universities that apply for membership.
Observer Members: Departments that have not yet officially joined.
Honorary Members: Individuals or groups who have contributed to the organization.
Organizational Structure
TPTSA’s organizational structure includes:
General Assembly of Representatives: Composed of representatives from different universities, responsible for decision-making and membership review.
Executive Committee: Includes the president, vice president, and directors of various divisions, responsible for daily operations. The term of office is one year.
Major Activities
Sports Competitions and Exchanges: Such as the "POST Cup" (Intercollegiate Rehabilitation Tournament).
Academic Exchange Events: Including graduate research presentations.
International Exchange: Collaborating with the Asia Physical Therapy Student Association and participating in international academic activities.
Funding Sources
TPTSA operates on a "user-pays" principle. In case of insufficient funds, sponsorships can be sought from individuals, associations, or institutions.
Through academic, sports, and international exchange activities, TPTSA enhances students’ understanding and development in the field of physical therapy. It provides a national platform for students to learn from one another, improve their professional skills, and connect with the global community.