BKUI UMS Enhances Strategic Collaborations to Promote Internationalization of Education

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), through its Office of Collaboration and International Affairs (BKUI), initiated an important collaboration with the delegation of Kongju National University, South Korea, on Monday (13/1/2025). The event, held in the BPH Meeting Room on the 6th floor of the Siti Walidah Main Building at UMS, marked a strategic moment in strengthening global networks and enhancing international academic cooperation.

The meeting was attended by four delegates from Kongju National University, namely Prof. Dr. Jang Changgee, Jang Jae-Kyoung, Byun Sung Keun, and Joseph Han. The delegation was warmly welcomed by the UMS leadership, including Vice-Rector V for Collaboration and International Affairs, Prof. Supriyono, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., who also opened the event.

“We are very honored to welcome the visit from Kongju National University. This is an important first step toward expanding academic and research collaborations in various fields. We hope this partnership will serve as a bridge to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions,” said Supriyono.

Meanwhile, Joseph Han, a staff member from the Cooperation Division of Kongju National University, expressed his appreciation for the warm reception from UMS.

“Kongju National University sees great potential in UMS, particularly in terms of educational innovation and its contributions at the international level. We are optimistic that this partnership will result in relevant and beneficial programs for both students and faculty at the two institutions,” he said.

The Head of BKUI UMS, Andy Dwi Bayu Bawono, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., conveyed that BKUI aimed to provide a brief comprehensive overview of UMS, including its potential and strengths as a foundation for strategic collaboration with Kongju National University. He showcased UMS various achievements in academics, as well as its position as one of the best private universities in Indonesia, through a short profile video.

The discussion continued with discussion on collaboration programs, including student exchanges, research partnerships, and the development of other joint education programs.

UMS plans to intensify student exchange activities within the Double Degree Program as a step forward in enhancing graduate competitiveness. In line with this plan, both parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a symbol of commitment. UMS has also prepared at least two to four competent students from selected study programs to participate in the initiative.

The MoU was signed by the Rector of UMS, Prof. Dr. Sofyan Anif, M.Si. (left), and Vice-Rector for Collaboration at Kongju National University, Prof. Dr. Jang Changgee (right). Imam Safi’i/UMS PR

“We are very interested in developing a student exchange program that allows students from both universities to learn about each other’s cultures, education systems, and research. This will be a valuable experience for them,” added Joseph Han.

The meeting concluded with the exchange of souvenirs between the two parties as a symbol of synergy and commitment to collaboration. Supriyono expressed his hopes that the two institutions would soon realize the plans discussed.

“I believe we share the same vision and mission, which is to boost collaboration to benefit both institutions. Perhaps we will establish other forms of cooperation in the future, such as visiting lecturer programs, summer schools, and research in specific fields,” Supriyono concluded.

Writer: Genis Dwi Gustati

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid

Editor: Al Habiib Josy Asheva