AIT's mission is "to develop highly qualified and committed professionals who will play a leading role in the sustainable development of the region and its integration into the global economy". AIT will serve the human resource development needs of developing countries in Asia taking into account their specific development priorities, gender issues and social values.

SERD activities and function will be within this framework, as a majority of its graduates return and participate in the development goals of their countries. Those who pursue their doctoral degrees increase their professional skills and qualifications.

SERD responds to regional needs by mobilizing and enhancing capacities for socially, economically and environmentally sound development in partnerships with public and private sectors. The School's interdisciplinary approach integrates technological, natural and social sciences.

The School:

• will continue its leadership role in offering excellence academic programs relevant to regional needs and responsive to students' interests.
• research will be concentrated toward focal areas and are to be conducted by core teams.
• outreach will be community-service-oriented.
• will be consolidated and financially viable. The School activities including the students, staff, faculty and curricula, will be subject to quality assessment.