The wave of artificial intelligence (AI) is surging forward with unprecedented momentum, as technological innovations achieve breakthrough advances across multiple fronts, driving AI toward greater efficiency and intelligence while triggering profound transformations in higher education. What responses are East Asian countries making to these developments? To address the globally relevant question, UNESCO-ICHEI and UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia jointly launched a new edition of CLOUD. From diverse perspectives and case studies including cutting-edge policy, academia-industry practices and expert insights, this edition demonstrates the innovative achievements of East Aisan higher education in AI adoption and academia-industry collaboration.