Universitas Indonesia (UI) welcomed Dr. Takahiro Ota, Associate Professor from the Graduate School of Human Sciences, The University of Osaka, to discuss a pioneering academic collaboration focused on ecosystem services and sustainable development in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Ota, known for his extensive research on peatland and edible-nest swiftlet ecosystems in Kalimantan, proposed an interdisciplinary field-based program designed to bring together undergraduate and graduate students from ASEAN countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam, and Japan. The proposed program would take place in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, and involve areas such as environmental science, anthropology, sociology, engineering, law, and economics.
During the meeting, which was hosted by UI’s Directorate for Internationalization of Education, both parties discussed the framework of the pilot project, which is planned for August to align with varying academic calendars. The program will accommodate up to 20 participants, with students covering their own travel and accommodation expenses, while select logistics such as local transport and meals will be arranged by the host university.
Participants who complete the program will receive academic transcripts or certificates, allowing for credit transfer or academic recognition at their home institutions. UI is currently assessing the operational aspects of the program before promoting it across its faculties and departments.
The meeting concluded with enthusiasm on both sides for strengthening educational ties and offering students real-world exposure to complex sustainability issues through a global and collaborative lens.
Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education
