UMS Promotes International Scholarships and Study Programs in Cambodia

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) remains committed to expanding its international reach. Recently, the university held a promotional roadshow in Cambodia from March 12-14, 2025.

Beyond showcasing its top programs, Denny Vitasari, S.T., M.Eng.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Academic Cooperation Development Division at BKUI UMS, stated that UMS is also offering Cambodian students opportunities to pursue higher education in Indonesia through the International Priority Scholarship (IPS) program.

“The IPS scholarship offers both full and partial funding for international students," Denny said in an official statement on Friday (21/3/2025).

UMS team traveled to Kuwait Center in Kampot Province, Cambodia, an office of the AFED. Photograph: BKUI

Upon arriving at Phnom Penh International Airport on Tuesday (12/3/2025) the UMS delegation was warmly welcomed by Asian Foundation for Education and Development in Cambodia (AFED) representatives, who helped facilitate connections between UMS and Cambodian schools.

The first school visited was Kuwait Center, where Denny Vitasari had the opportunity to present various study options at UMS, including details about the international scholarship program.

“The students were very enthusiastic and asked many questions about admission requirements and campus life at UMS,” Denny added.

Following the exhibition, the UMS team, accompanied by AFED's Director, visited AFED's office to gain deeper insights into the organization's mission. According to Denny, AFED shares many values with Muhammadiyah, particularly in education, social welfare, and healthcare.

At Hun Sen Chakryavong High School in Krong Kaeb City, students eagerly listened to UMS's presentation. Photograph: AFED

The UMS team also visited Mahad Imam Syafie in Kampot, Hun Sen Chakryavong High School in Krong Kaeb City, and Attamayus High School in Preah Sihanouk City. Students at each school expressed great interest in continuing their studies at UMS.

“They were especially excited about the scholarship opportunities for international students and appreciated UMS' openness to students from diverse religious backgrounds,” Denny explained.

On the second day, Wednesday (13/3/2025), the UMS team visited Al-Ihsan Association for Islamic Education & Development in Chrang Chamres, Phnom Penh, and Norol Iman High School in Chroy Metrey, Kandal Province. The students showed keen interest in UMS programs, particularly in religious studies, Arabic language, healthcare, and medicine.

On the final day of the roadshow, Thursday (14/3/2025), the team traveled to more remote areas, visiting the Institute of Integrated Tahfiz Cambodia (INTAC) in Tbong Khmum Province and Maahad Haji Fickry High School in Kampong Cham.

Before returning to Indonesia, the UMS delegation visited the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Phnom Penh, where they were warmly received by Dr. Santo Darmosumarto, the Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia. He expressed strong support for UMS efforts in promoting study opportunities in Indonesia.

“Pak Santo also encouraged UMS to participate in the Mini Education Fair organized by KBRI in June 2025. He further suggested that information about scholarships and study opportunities at UMS be shared through KBRI Phnom Penh’s social media platforms,” Denny stated.

Through this roadshow, UMS aims to expand opportunities for Cambodian students to pursue higher education in Indonesia. Additionally, UMS hopes to establish further collaborations with educational institutions in Cambodia in the fields of community service, research, and internships.

The UMS team took a group photo with Dr. Santo Darmosumarto, the Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia. Photograph: BKUI

The success of this roadshow opens doors for strengthening diplomatic and educational ties between Indonesia and Cambodia while introducing more educational opportunities for the younger generations in both countries.

“Through the International Priority Scholarship and various learning support facilities at UMS, we aim to provide international students with access to quality education at UMS. We hope this roadshow paves the way for more Cambodian students to continue their studies in Indonesia,” Denny concluded.

Writer: Gede Arga Adrian

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid

Editor: Al Habiib Josy Asheva