Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Kyushu University have cemented a robust partnership to foster research publication and student exchange programs, particularly in education and community service.
This strategic alliance was solidified during the Kyushu University delegation’s visit to the UGM campus on Monday (Mar. 18). Esteemed scholars Dr. Fumihiko Yokota and Professor Koji Todaka from the Kyushu University Institute for Asian and Oceanian Studies (Q-AOS) represented Kyushu University during this visit.
Professor Wening Udasmoro, the UGM Vice Rector for Education and Teaching, highlighted the longstanding collaboration with Kyushu University, emphasizing that this visit marked a significant step forward in research collaboration, particularly in drug development, joint research publication endeavors, and fostering student exchange initiatives.
“Our discussions revolved around bolstering collaboration in the healthcare sector, particularly in combating infectious diseases and advancing vaccine development. Additionally, Kyushu University will dispatch students to partake in our Community Service Program (KKN), underscoring the reciprocal nature of this partnership,” shared Professor Udasmoro.
Professor Udasmoro touched upon the joint research publication efforts and underscored Kyushu University’s collaborations with UGM. Kyushu University boasts 241 research publications with UGM, the most among its collaborations with other Indonesian universities.
In addition to publications, Professor Udasmoro emphasized the shared commitment of both universities toward ensuring that research collaborations in the healthcare sector yield tangible benefits for communities and industries at large.
“We aspire for tangible benefits stemming from translational research endeavors, directly impacting communities. This collaborative synergy also aligns with the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), particularly targeting advancements in healthcare, quality education, and fostering impactful partnerships,” she added.
Dr. Fumihiko Yokota lauded the enduring collaboration in education and research with UGM, highlighting Kyushu University’s status as a prominent national university situated in the vibrant city of Fukuoka, which has a population of 1.5 million.
According to the QS World University Ranking, Kyushu University is ranked 7th in Japan and 135th globally. It accommodates 18,560 students, including 2,097 international scholars.
Regarding the collaboration with UGM, he emphasized that UGM is one of the 14 partner universities in Indonesia that has established cooperation with Kyushu University. Through collaboration with UGM, they have successfully produced 241 joint research publications from 2017 to 2021.
“This number of publications is the highest compared to other universities in Indonesia,” he stated.
Professor Koji Todaka shed light on Kyushu’s leading role in Japan’s research and development landscape, particularly in pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
He underscored the intricate journey of producing innovative drugs and medical equipment, emphasizing the vital role of business development units in translating research breakthroughs into tangible solutions.
“The journey spans foundational research, formula development, rigorous testing, clinical trials, regulatory approvals, culminating in market dissemination, underscoring the comprehensive approach required in our endeavors,” elucidated Prof. Koji Todaka.
Author: Gusti Grehenson
Photographer: Donnie