On Tuesday (19/3), the Vice-Rector for Education and Teaching, on behalf of the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UGM and Saint-Petersburg University Russia.
The MoU was signed online via Zoom and attended by leaders and representatives from both institutions.
This collaboration includes the development of joint research projects, joint educational and scientific activities such as courses, conferences, seminars, symposiums, or lectures, academic and scientific exchanges, student exchanges, the exchange of publications and other information of mutual interest, and joint educational project development, including the development and implementation of academic programs.
“We welcome this collaboration and hope that it will be implemented comprehensively as soon as possible,” said the Vice-Rector for Education and Teaching, Professor Wening Udasmoro.
Professor Udasmoro stated that the Indonesian government currently provides broader opportunities for universities to conduct double degree programs with various foreign universities.
Additionally, various scholarship schemes allow students to gain international exposure through exchange activities for one or two semesters with government funding support.
“Now, there are many opportunities for that, so it is excellent that we can collaborate with universities in various countries,” she added.
During this event, she also discussed several flagship programs owned by UGM, including the Community Service Program (KKN). He hoped that Saint-Petersburg University students participating in exchange activities at UGM would also be involved in this program.
“Through KKN, we provide opportunities for students to implement their knowledge within the community, and now there are more international students involved,” said the vice-rector.
Sergey Andryushin, Vice-Rector for International Affairs of Saint Petersburg University, mentioned that signing this memorandum of understanding feels special because it coincides with celebrating the university’s 300th anniversary.
He also hoped that the collaboration designed will positively impact both institutions.
“Saint-Petersburg University and Universitas Gadjah Mada are both comprehensive universities, so there are many possibilities and opportunities for collaboration in a wide range of fields in science and education,” he said.
He also discussed plans for establishing an Asia-Africa study center at Saint-Petersburg University, including plans to open Indonesian language classes. He hoped this cooperation would also pave the way for Saint-Petersburg University members to enhance their understanding and interest in Indonesian culture.
“I believe that soon we will see exchanges of students and academic staff that will allow us to get to know each other better. Hopefully, this will lead to ideas and initiatives we can implement,” he continued.
Author: Gloria