Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a delegation from Chiba University, Japan, to strengthen academic cooperation on Tuesday (Oct. 28) at the UGM Central Office. During the visit, both universities discussed potential areas of collaboration, including double degree programs, joint research, student exchanges, and the development of summer and winter school programs.
“UGM has initiated similar programs such as student exchanges, scholarships, seasonal courses, and proposed double degree programs, which could serve as potential steps for future collaboration,” said Professor Wening Udasmoro, UGM’s Vice Rector for Education and Teaching.
Professor Udasmoro explained that UGM has 18 faculties and two schools, each with strong potential for interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Academic collaborations such as double degree programs and joint research not only strengthen networks but also broaden shared knowledge across cultures and nations,” she said.
Hiroaki Ozawa, Executive Vice President of Chiba University, introduced his institution, which comprises 11 undergraduate faculties and nine graduate schools spanning various fields, including science, social sciences, medicine, and horticulture.
“As a comprehensive university, we have many opportunities to collaborate in research,” he noted.
In addition to academic programs, Ozawa also highlighted Chiba University’s development of digital-based learning initiatives, such as JMOOC (Japanese Massive Open Online Courses), which offer online courses on Japanese culture, technology, and creative industries, including manga and sake culture.
Another representative from Chiba University, Professor Josaphat Tetuko Sri Sumantyo, stated that the university offers scholarships and student exchange opportunities for UGM students, particularly in the fields of agriculture, engineering, and environmental studies.
“We currently have more than 40 international programs with universities in countries such as Korea, China, Taiwan, Australia, and Germany. UGM will be our next important partner,” he said.
Dean of the UGM Faculty of Geography, Professor Muhammad Kamal, mentioned that UGM has collaborated with Chiba University since 2012, and this year marks the 15th anniversary of their partnership. One of his achievements, he noted, is the graduation of the first cohort from the double-degree program.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Donnie Trsifian