Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a delegation from the University of Groningen, the Netherlands, to discuss plans for enhanced collaboration between the two universities at the UGM Executive Meeting Room on Monday (Nov. 17). During the visit, both institutions discussed developments related to the UGM–University of Groningen Hub, a joint doctoral degree proposal for LPDP, and a potential “trilateral” partnership with Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB).
UGM Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Partnerships, Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, expressed his appreciation for the initiative and viewed it as the beginning of a long-term partnership.
“Today we would like to welcome this collaboration, to discuss strategic cooperation, and to explore the potential for long-term partnerships in the future,” he stated.
The meeting began with introductions from both universities, followed by a presentation by the University of Groningen representative, Professor Elmer, who emphasized the university’s intention to expand its internationalization programs through the UGM–University of Groningen Hub.
The program serves as a flexible platform to accelerate education, research, and innovation; connect universities with industry; provide physical or digital collaborative spaces; and support interdisciplinary academic centers.
“The Hub can also function as a type of digital instrument, where you share virtual integration and possibly virtual mobility. So the Hub is a flexible concept that institutions can use to strengthen engagement,” he explained.
Previously, the two universities had established cooperation through a 2021–2026 Memorandum of Understanding covering double-degree programs across several faculties (including engineering, geography, and law), student exchanges, and a supervisory framework for doctoral programs.
To date, both institutions have undertaken strategic collaboration focusing on academic coordination between UGM and the University of Groningen, physical presence, and various activities such as program promotion, research matchmaking, and serving as contact points for official visits.
The visit continued with discussions on expanding cross-faculty collaboration, including master’s and PhD programs, joint research, and student exchanges. Representatives from each faculty presented their areas of interest.
Dr. Sudadi, from the Faculty of Medicine, expressed interest in developing research collaboration in basic medicine, clinical medicine, and public health.
“I think this is very beneficial as an exercise for students. Here they can interact before entering the professional world,” he noted.
Author: Salwa
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Firsto Adi