Universitas Indonesia (UI) welcomed Dr. Ryuhei Sano, Professor at the Faculty of Social Policy and Administration, Hosei University, Japan, to discuss potential collaboration in education, research, and student development — particularly focusing on equine-assisted activities and wellbeing programs.
Representing Universitas Indonesia were:
Prof. Ir. Mahmud Sudibandriyo, M.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs
Dicky C. Pelupessy, Ph.D., Vice Dean for Academic, Research, and Student Affairs, Faculty of Psychology
Dr. Drs. A. G. Sudibyo, M.Si., Director of Student Affairs and Scholarships
Dr. Muthia Pramesti, S.E., M.M., Assistant Director for International Education Program Development and Partnership, Directorate for Internationalization of Education
Yunitha Fajarwati, Section Head of International Education Partnership, Directorate for Internationalization of Education
Dr. Adriana Ginanjar, Lecturer, Faculty of Psychology
Kesya Vanya Lukita, Head of the UI Equestrian Student Activity Unit / Psychology Student, Class of 2024
Hanny Kemala Fauster, International Visits Officer, Directorate for Internationalization of Education
During the meeting, Dr. Sano introduced Hosei University as one of Japan’s oldest and most prominent universities, emphasizing its distinctive focus on human–horse wellbeing. Hosei has pioneered programs that allow students, staff, and even partner institutions to engage directly with horses as part of educational and well-being activities. These programs include both credit-bearing and non-credit-bearing subjects related to equine interaction.
Hosei University also collaborates with high schools and kindergartens, enabling children to experience interaction with horses, and offers monthly stress management sessions for university staff through horse-assisted activities. With Japan’s strong equestrian tradition, approximately 10% of Japanese universities have equestrian clubs. Hosei aims to promote broader awareness of equine-assisted wellbeing.
Looking ahead, Dr. Sano outlined Hosei’s vision for a triangular collaboration among universities, persons with disabilities, and horses, designed to advance inclusive education, therapeutic practices, and community engagement. He expressed interest in partnering with UI to:
Strengthen inter-university collaborations;
Advance research and dynamic academic discussions; and
Facilitate networking among partners in equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities.
From the UI’s side, the UI Equestrian Student Activity Unit shared insights on its activities, which include not only equestrian sports but also hands-on care and interaction with horses, such as feeding and grooming. The discussion also touched upon the idea of developing a horse stable facility at UI, potentially using UNESA’s horse stable as a benchmark.
Prof. Mahmud Sudibandriyo expressed support for exploring the establishment of such facilities, emphasizing the importance of conducting a feasibility study to determine the necessary area and resources. Dr. Muthia Pramesti encouraged continued dialogue between the two institutions through email and online meetings to develop future collaboration in this unique field.
Both universities shared a strong commitment to promoting mental well-being, inclusivity, and innovative educational experiences through equine-assisted learning and research.
Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education
