Universitas Indonesia (UI) recently welcomed a distinguished delegation from Tsuda University, Japan, to discuss potential academic collaboration and shared commitments to advancing gender equality in education. The meeting highlighted both institutions’ dedication to fostering inclusive academic environments and promoting international cooperation.
The Tsuda University delegation was led by President Dr. Yuko Takahashi and accompanied by Ms. Junko Nii, Chief Administrative Officer. UI’s delegation was represented by:
Prof. Ir. Mahmud Sudibandriyo, M.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs
Fadhilah Muslim, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., DIC, Director for Internationalization of Education
Dr. Muthia Pramesti, S.E., M.M., Assistant Director of International Education Program Development and Partnership
President Yuko Takahashi introduced Tsuda University as one of the first higher education institutions for women in Japan. Founded in 1900 by pioneering educator Umeko Tsuda, the university has played a historic role in empowering women and shaping Japanese society. Driven by a strong sense of responsibility and duty, Tsuda University remains committed to fostering positive social change.
Several notable alumnae were mentioned during the meeting, including Kume Ai (one of Japan’s first female lawyers), Moriyama Mayumi (the first female Chief Cabinet Secretary), Yamane Toshiko (Japan’s first female diplomat), and Yamakawa Kikue (first female Head of the Women and Minors Bureau at the Ministry of Labor). Their achievements reflect the institution’s lasting impact on the advancement of women in Japan.
During the meeting, UI shared its strategic initiative to expand the number of International Class Programs, particularly focusing on double degree and joint degree offerings. Currently, UI offers 22 International Undergraduate Programs across various disciplines, including sciences, engineering, medicine, political and social sciences, and computer science. Plans are underway to launch additional programs in the near future.
Dr. Fadhilah highlighted that UI’s current double and joint degree partners are primarily located in Australia and the United Kingdom. She expressed interest in further exploring similar opportunities with Dutch institutions.
Ms. Wendelien emphasized the unique value of student exchange programs, especially the cultural and linguistic exposure students gain while abroad. This view was shared by UI’s leadership. Both parties agreed to strengthen reciprocal student exchange schemes between UI and VU.
Addressing recent developments, Ms. Wendelien noted a new policy initiative by the Dutch government aimed at reducing the number of international students in the Netherlands. However, she expressed uncertainty about the full implementation of this policy. She also mentioned that VU’s faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences, Theology and Religion are planned to be merged into a single faculty.
An important update was provided regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two universities. Ms. Wendelien announced that the Vice Rector of VU is scheduled to visit UI in August to officially represent the Rector, who is currently on leave, in the MoU signing process.
In an exchange of ideas for further collaboration, Dr. Fadhilah referred to an existing academic scheme involving French students conducting research projects abroad for approximately three months. Some of these students have previously completed their research at UI. She inquired about the possibility of establishing a similar scheme for Dutch students from VU.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing mutual enthusiasm for deepening their academic collaboration and expanding opportunities for students and faculty alike.
Ms. Junko Nii provided an overview of the university’s English-language programs. These include departments under the College of Liberal Arts, such as English, International and Cultural Studies, International Cooperation and Multicultural Studies, Mathematics, and Computer Science. In addition, the College of Policy Studies offers a Department of Policy Studies.
The two universities discussed potential areas of academic collaboration. At UI, several faculties are seen as strong candidates for partnership with Tsuda University, including the Faculty of Humanities (FIB), Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Faculty of Law (FH), Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), and Faculty of Computer Science (FASILKOM).
During the discussion, President Yuko strongly emphasized the importance of increasing women’s participation in society. She encouraged both institutions to collaborate in challenging patriarchal norms and customs, not only in Japan but globally. She reaffirmed Tsuda University’s mission to support women’s access to higher education and leadership roles in all sectors.
The meeting concluded with optimism and enthusiasm on both sides. UI and Tsuda University share a common vision of building equitable academic partnerships and creating opportunities for students and scholars to thrive through international collaboration.
Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education
