Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through the Faculty of Agricultural Technology (FTP UGM) and the Faculty of Geography (Geography UGM), in collaboration with the National University of Singapore (NUS), officially launched the Southeast Asia Friendship Initiative on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at FTP UGM.
37 students from NUS and 21 students from UGM are participating in this program, which aims to strengthen collaboration among Southeast Asian universities through the exchange of knowledge, culture, and cross-border experiences.
The Dean of FTP UGM, Professor Eni Harmayani, stated that the program is a vital bridge for students to enhance partnerships and interdisciplinary collaboration across agricultural technology, sustainability, and cross-cultural understanding.
“Although we come from different backgrounds, we are united by our commitment to learning and global collaboration,” she said.
The Vice-Dean for Academic, Teaching, and Student Affairs at Geography UGM, Dr. Erlis Saputra, expressed hope that the program would extend beyond research and student exchange to include community empowerment.
“We hope that NUS students will one day participate directly in UGM’s Community Service Program (KKN-PPM),” he added.
NUS representative Associate Professor Kuldip Singh emphasized the importance of real-world experience for students in 21st-century education.
He explained that the program is part of NUS’s new philosophy of experiential learning, which is reflected in the NUS One initiative.
“Students no longer gain knowledge solely from books, but through human connection and empathy, which are irreplaceable,” he said.
This program follows a series of meetings between the leadership of both universities and forms part of a strategic initiative to strengthen Indonesia-Singapore relations, particularly in higher education.
Embodying the spirit of friendship and collaboration, this student exchange activity is not merely an academic platform but also a foundation for long-term partnerships with real impact on society and the ASEAN region.
Author: Rahma Khoirunnisa
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna