IPB University and SFU Forge Research Collaboration, Double Degree, and Student Mobility Initiatives
IPB University recently hosted a visit from Dr. Joy Johnson, President and Vice-Chancellor of Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada. The meeting, held at the Andi Hakim Nasoetion Building on IPB’s Dramaga Campus, focused on exploring potential collaborations related to research, double degree programs, innovation, and student and faculty exchanges.
Exploring Strategic Partnerships
During the discussions, Dr. Johnson highlighted SFU’s interest in establishing a strategic partnership with IPB University, underscoring both institutions’ shared vision of enhancing global research impact and promoting sustainable development. She described SFU, founded in 1965 and currently serving approximately 37,000 students, as a research-intensive university committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with particular emphasis on climate action and urban sustainability.
Areas of Collaborative Research
Dr. Johnson also noted SFU’s strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, climate innovation, public health, and agricultural technology, indicating a willingness to engage in collaborative research initiatives with IPB University in these domains.
IPB University’s Commitment
In response, Rector Dr. Alim Setiawan Slamet reiterated IPB University’s commitment to international research collaborations that aim to provide meaningful contributions to societal challenges. He emphasized the institution’s focus on advancing research and innovation to address issues like food security and sustainability.
Expertise in Key Areas
The meeting further spotlighted IPB University’s expertise in agriculture, marine science, and tropical bioscience, areas for which it holds a strong international recognition. Notably, the university ranks first in both ASEAN and Indonesia for agricultural subjects according to the QS World University Rankings.
Significance of Student Mobility
Additionally, Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs, Prof. Deni Noviana, emphasized the importance of student mobility as a key element of the partnership. He indicated that IPB University was awarded the 2025 Higher Education Award for Science and Technology for achieving the highest student mobility performance in non-degree programs.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The discussions concluded with recommendations from the attendees, including deans and leaders from international research institutions, to advance double degree programs, collaborative scientific publications, online dissertation examinations, and enhanced cooperation in areas such as climate change, waste management, artificial intelligence, and sustainable agri-food systems.
(Cited from IPB University news)
