UNAIR AGE Boosts Internationalization by Participating in Three Prestigious Exhibitions
Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has taken proactive measures to bolster its international presence by participating in three notable global exhibitions: the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE), the European Association for International Education (EAIE), and APAC 2024. Delegates from UNAIR highlighted the university’s accomplishments and engaged in discussions regarding potential collaborations. A workshop related to these efforts was held on December 10, 2024, at the Majapahit Hall, ASEEC Tower, Dharmawangsa-B Campus.
Strengthening Ties Across Asia-Pacific
At the APAIE conference in Bangkok, Thailand, UNAIR representatives engaged in negotiations with 49 universities across the Asia-Pacific region. Astria Okta Herdiani, S.Ikom, indicated that strategic discussions centered on various program initiatives, including student exchanges, the New Colombo Plan, Erasmus, dual degree programs, and the Airlangga Global Scholar program.
Of the 49 universities approached, 36 were identified as potential collaboration partners. Challenges such as geographical distance and adherence to QS ranking criteria were acknowledged. Herdiani mentioned that efforts were made to map institutions with significant collaboration potential upon returning to Indonesia, noting the necessity for further evaluation of certain institutions based on their feedback.
Expanding Partnerships Across Europe
UNAIR also sent delegates to EAIE 2024 in Toulouse, France. Delegate Tofan Agung Eka Prasetya, Ph.D., reported that the focus was on developing several initiatives, including the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA), staff mobility through the Erasmus program, adjunct professorship opportunities, and collaborative research projects.
Engagement with 40 prospective partners led to 14 institutions being identified for follow-up discussions, while 26 others remain under consideration. Noteworthy institutions expressing interest included Chonnam National University, the University of Pisa, Université de Genève, and QS Quacquarelli Symonds for various exchange programs.
APAC 2024 Engagement
During the APAC 2024 event, UNAIR representatives connected with 44 universities from 13 countries, including Australia, China, and Vietnam. Oppie Agasta A. Md reported substantial interest in student and staff exchanges, joint research initiatives, and participation in the Airlangga Program Scholar initiative.
As a result of the discussions at this event, AGE UNAIR has identified 20 universities willing to establish Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance educational and research collaborations.
The involvement of UNAIR in these exhibitions reflects the institution’s commitment to forming international partnerships and advancing its global standing within the academic community.
Source: Universitas Airlangga Communications Office
