Liberal arts in Asian higher education

The term “liberal arts” traditionally conjures images of leafy, Western institutions offering small classes and flexible learning, with a focus on the arts, humanities and natural sciences. But what are the benefits of embedding liberal arts within higher education in Asia, the world’s largest continent and a rising power, particularly in STEM subjects? How important are the liberal arts for Asia’s future economic and social development in the face of global challenges? How can Asian higher education foster critical thinking and creativity through this model?