Directorate for Internationalization of Education - Global Office

Universitas Indonesia and Chiba University Expand Academic Synergies Through Joint Research and Comprehensive Mobility Programs

Universitas Indonesia (UI) recently hosted a distinguished delegation from Chiba University to strengthen their ongoing academic partnership. The strategic dialogue focused on expanding graduate education, reciprocal student exchanges, customized short courses, and high-impact joint research initiatives across multiple scientific disciplines.

The delegation from Chiba University was led by Prof. Hiroaki Ozawa, Executive Vice President, and included:

  • Prof. Nobuyuki Ichikuni – Deputy Vice President for study abroad and student support, Graduate School of Engineering
  • Prof. Josaphat Tetuko Sri Sumantyo – Center for Environmental Remote Sensing
  • Hiroshi Sodeyama – Deputy Head, International Affairs Division
  • Yukino Himoto – Staff, International Affairs Division
  • S. A. Naulitta Panggabean – Staff, Chiba University Indonesia International Exchange Center Office (Universitas Indonesia)

The Universitas Indonesia delegation was led by Prof. Ir. Mahmud Sudibandriyo, M.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, joined by:

  • Fadhilah Muslim S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., DIC – Director for Internationalization of Education
  • Ir. Jaka Fajar Fatriansyah, M.Sc., Ph.D., ASEAN Eng., IPU – Head of the Sub-Directorate of International Education Development
  • Yunitha Fajarwati S.Hum – Section Head, International Partnership
  • Sarah Khansa Agharid, S.Hum., M.Si – External Grant Administrator, Directorate Research Funding and Ecosystem

Moving beyond traditional exchange models, both universities explored comprehensive student mobility pathways across undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral levels, specifically highlighting English-taught programs and joint supervision opportunities. The institutions identified strong collaborative potential in Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, and Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA). Additionally, the delegations discussed the development of intensive one-to-four-week short courses designed to seamlessly integrate academic coursework, cultural immersion, and targeted industry visits.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed the logistical frameworks necessary to support these programs. Both teams emphasized the critical need to synchronize academic calendars to determine optimal exchange windows. Furthermore, they explored robust scholarship and financial support systems, including potential tuition waivers, living allowances, and external funding from foundations and corporations. The visit concluded with clear, actionable steps: both institutions will actively disseminate information regarding English-taught programs and exchange opportunities to relevant faculties, identify department-specific collaborations, and appoint dedicated Persons in Charge (PICs) to streamline future coordination.

Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education