Twelve students from the Master of Development Economics Program at UGM’s Faculty of Economics and Business (MEP FEB UGM) have begun a linkage program at several leading universities in Japan.
They are participating in the Master Linkage Professional Human Resource Development (PHRD) program, which runs from August 2024 to August 2025. This program provides them with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in the field of planning.
These students completed one year of study at MEP FEB UGM, starting in the 2023/2024 academic year.
Now, they continue their second year of linkage studies at prestigious universities in Japan, such as the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), Takushoku University, Hiroshima University, Kobe University, the International University of Japan, and Ritsumeikan University.
Dr. Akhmad Akbar Susamto, Head of MEP FEB UGM, said this linkage program aims to enhance Indonesia’s human resources in facing global challenges.
“This program not only offers a learning experience in a world-class academic environment but also opens opportunities for international networking to support national development,” he stated on Monday, Mar. 17, 2025, at FEB UGM.
Dr. Susamto explained that during their studies at MEP FEB UGM, students are equipped with essential regional economic planning and development skills.
Their second year of study in Japan offers a golden opportunity to directly explore strategic issues in economics, planning, public policy, and international relations with renowned experts and academics.
He hopes that this linkage program will continue in the future, further strengthening educational ties between Indonesia and Japan.
Through the program, students are expected to build new perspectives, establish strategic relationships, and prepare themselves as future leaders.
“With their experience studying in Japan, these students are expected to drive innovative and sustainable development in Indonesia,” he said.
Report by: FEB UGM/Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Lintang