Fakultas Biologi UGM Terima Kunjungan dari Saitama University, Jepang
Fakultas Biologi UGM Terima Kunjungan dari Saitama University, Jepang
Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, received a visit from the Institute of Environmental Research and Technology Graduate School of Science & Engineering, Saitama University, Japan, represented by Prof. Masaru Ohme-Takagi, Director of the Institute, Wednesday (20/1). The aim of this visit is to conduct discussions and the initiation of cooperation between the two institutions as a continuation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which was signed in 2013.
Masaru said that Saitama University is currently looking to expand cooperation with several universities outside Japan. His visit this time is a good opportunity to be able to start cooperation with the Faculty of Biology in the form of collaborative research, staff/student exchange, as well as Double Degree program. "We had some internship programs that facilitate international students to be able to feel the atmosphere of Saitama University for 2-4 weeks. We also have a program “Lab to Lab” that can facilitate collaboration among laboratories from universities outside Japan, and the opportunity is open in various forms of cooperation," he said.
Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, welcomed the delegation from Saitama University. The visit is a preliminary stage to discuss forms of cooperation that will be made by both institutions in the future. It was also responded positively by the Vice Dean of Academic and Student Affairs of Faculty of Biology, Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc.
"It is encouraging for the Biology Faculty that we could do various forms of cooperation with Saitama University. However, for Double Degree programs, it needs further discussion in particular. It concerns the regulation of higher education in both countries and the need to clarify the course credit transfer system, " he explained.
On this occasion, Masaru also gave a guest lecture themed Transcription factors are useful tools for the manipulation of plant traits to the lecturers and students of the Faculty of Biology. He also motivated the students to study abroad, especially in Japan. "I hope one of the students here to want to try 2-4 weeks of study at Saitama University, and if it suits you, you could continue your study there."