The mobility of students from ASEAN countries to East Asian nations has steadily increased, reflecting the region’s popularity as a tourist destination and preferred choice for pursuing higher education.
Hence, collaboration between universities in ASEAN Plus Three (APT) countries, which includes Japan, Korea, and China, needs to be strengthened.
This issue was raised during the international seminar and student camp for students from ASEAN countries and three East Asian nations—Japan, China, and South Korea (ASEAN+3/APT).
This event, organized by the UGM Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (PSSAT UGM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, was held on Monday (Sep. 9) at the UGM Senate Hall.
UGM Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni Professor Wening Udasmoro emphasized the importance of ASEAN students understanding current issues in East Asia, both among educators and students in APT member countries.
“It is hoped that the numerous discussions will facilitate an exchange of perspectives and knowledge on the establishment of East Asian study centers, enhance connectivity between participants through direct interaction, and promote the culture of each country,” Professor Udasmoro stated.
For her, the seminar and student camp, which will run until Sep. 11, serve as a platform to exchange ideas, foster leadership potential, and shape the future of East Asian Studies.
Each participant brings invaluable insights and experiences, and she encouraged them to seize this opportunity to collaborate and learn from one another.
“Let’s build lasting relationships that will benefit us in the future,” Professor Udasmoro added.
She also noted that collaboration among APT member countries is an extraordinary effort to expand regional outreach and foster cultural understanding.
The future of ASEAN and its partner nations lies in the hands of those willing to remain connected and collaborate to promote peace and cooperation in various fields.
“This event marks a great start in our shared journey towards a stronger and more integrated ASEAN community,” Professor Udasmoro concluded optimistically.
The Director of Learning and Student Affairs at the Ministry of Education, Professor Sri Suning Kusumawardani, emphasized the need to strengthen the role of higher education in East Asian studies and collaboration among APT members.
She pointed out that higher education as a cultural hub has three primary missions: running international student exchange programs, conducting joint research, and engaging in collaborative learning related to a country’s history, politics, economy, and culture.
“Education today is not solely about preparing students for jobs but much more than that,” she explained.
According to Professor Kusumawardani, students accustomed to international exposure are more adaptable to change and possess critical thinking skills that benefit their personal development.
“Collaboration in higher education can address challenges and help foster a regional identity. Hopefully, through this international seminar and student camp, a roadmap for establishing East Asian Study Centers at APT universities will be created,” Professor Kusumawardani elaborated.
Meanwhile, Yuliana Bahar, the Director of ASEAN Socio-Cultural Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed that her team will carefully consider each recommendation made by the participants.
She expressed enthusiasm that all participants would do their best to address the issues presented in seminar classes, public lectures, group work, and workshops.
“I believe this forum will form centers of excellence for international cooperation in higher education across APT member countries,” Bahar remarked.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Donnie
Post-editor: Afif