The development of universities in the Asian and the Pacific region to the year 2000 is discussed, with attention to probable evolution of the goals and functions of higher learning. After considering higher education within the context of the cultural and educational background of the region, innovative trends in higher education are analyzed. Trends for the coming decades, and the issues of democratization and the social responsibilities of higher education, are also addressed. Factors that influence the development of education in Asia include population trends, per capita income, and the rate of illiteracy. Data are provided on the annual average increase in enrollment during 1965-1970 and 1970-1980 in Asia, Africa, America, Europe, and Oceania; enrollment projections by sex for 1985-2000 for nine regions in Asia; enrollments by field of study for nine countries; and student teacher ratios for Asia and Oceania for 1965-1980. The experiences of various Asian countries are discussed, with attention to the following topics: educational goals, structure and organization, curricular reform, faculty improvement, evaluation methods, distance learning, adult education, work experience programs, and research and development. The future role of universities, equality of opportunity, and educational reform are also considered. (SW)