
Universitas Indonesia (UI) welcomed a delegation from Kagoshima University, Japan, to discuss potential collaborations in academic and research initiatives, particularly in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and psychology. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties and exploring opportunities for joint programs, student exchange, and research cooperation.
The Kagoshima University delegation included:
Prof. Hiroyuki Okuno, Professor, Department of Biochemistry
Prof. Kosuke Hamaguchi, Professor, Department of Physiology
Prof. Yoshiaki Tagawa, Dean, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences
Representing Universitas Indonesia were:
Prof. Dr. dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, Sp.PD-KGEH, MMB., Dean, Faculty of Medicine
Prof. drg. Lisa Amir, Ph.D., Dean, Faculty of Dentistry
Dr. Arum Etikariena Hidayat, M.Psi., Psikolog, Manager for Human Resources and Ventures, Faculty of Psychology
Dr. Muthia Pramesti, S.E., M.M., Assistant Director for International Education Program Development and Partnership, Directorate for Internationalization of Education
Yunitha Fajarwati, S.Hum., Section Head, International Education Partnership, Directorate for Internationalization of Education
During the meeting, both institutions discussed potential collaborations in academic and research programs, including:
Degree and Non-Degree Academic Cooperation, such as student exchange and short courses;
Joint Research Projects, focusing on areas of mutual strength; and
Scholarship Opportunities for postgraduate studies.
Kagoshima University, a key institution in Japan’s modernization and education history, currently operates across three campuses with over 10,000 students. Its Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences offers an interdisciplinary master’s program divided into three departments: the Frontier Bioscience Course, Advanced Medical Expert Course, and Global Expert Course.
The university also implements a tutor system to support international students in academic and cultural adaptation. Core research programs at Kagoshima focus on neuroscience, cancer research, lifestyle-related diseases, preventive medicine, and regenerative medicine.
Additionally, Kagoshima University offers the prestigious MEXT Scholarship from the Japanese government, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare. The scholarship is highly competitive, with limited seats (one for a master’s degree and two for PhD programs). The PhD program spans four years and requires candidates to publish at least one paper, aiming for Q1 journal publication quality.
Both universities expressed enthusiasm for continuing discussions to formalize collaboration, aiming to advance global health research, academic mobility, and cross-disciplinary innovation.
Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education