UNAIR Enhances Global Partnerships with Australian Consulate General in Surabaya
Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has made advancements in its international partnerships through a strategic meeting with the Australian Consulate General in Surabaya. This gathering featured representatives from the Australian delegation, including Mr. Glen Askew, the Consul General, and Han Xiao Zhang, the Counselor for Education and Research at the Department of Education in Jakarta.
UNAIR Attendees and Meeting Details
UNAIR attendees included Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development; Prof. Muhammad Miftahussurur, Vice Rector for Internationalization, Digitalization, and Information; and Prof. Iman Harymawan, Director of Airlangga Global Engagement. The meeting was held on February 14, 2025, at the Banten Room, 4th Floor, ASEEC Tower, Campus B of UNAIR, focusing on potential educational collaborations between Indonesia and Australia.
Partnerships and Research Meetings
During discussions, Prof. Harymawan highlighted ongoing efforts to expand partnerships with the Australian Consulate General, specifically referencing the upcoming Western Australia East Java University Consortium (WAEJUC) Research Meeting 2025. He indicated a forthcoming International Enrichment Program, WAEJUC 2025, scheduled to occur at Curtin University in Perth, Australia, from April 27 to May 1, 2025.
Educational Ties and Initiatives
Mr. Askew acknowledged the importance of the strategic meeting for strengthening educational ties between the two nations. He recognized UNAIR’s initiatives such as scholarship and double-degree programs benefiting Indonesian students pursuing studies in Australia. Moreover, Mr. Askew expressed interest in exploring additional activities to enhance Indonesia-Australia relations, including speech competitions and programs akin to those at the Aussie Banget Corner UNAIR.
New Colombo Plan Proposal
A significant topic discussed was the proposal for the New Colombo Plan 2025, presented by Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih. This initiative aims to deepen educational partnerships and promote student mobility through programs like the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA). Prof. Puspaningsih noted that many UNAIR alumni have gained from such programs, facilitating knowledge transfer and cultural exchange. Additionally, she mentioned collaborations in public health research with Griffith University, focusing on issues such as stunting and malaria.
Conclusion
This strategic engagement underscores UNAIR’s commitment to enhancing international relationships to improve educational quality and opportunities within Indonesia.
Original source: Universitas Airlangga
