Universitas Indonesia (UI) recently hosted a high-level meeting with a delegation from Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam to discuss future academic collaborations and enhance existing partnerships. The meeting marked a significant step forward in UI’s commitment to internationalization in higher education.
The Vrije Universiteit delegation was represented by Ms. Wendelien Tuyp, Coordinator of the VU Indonesia Network. UI’s delegation was led by Fadhilah Muslim, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., DIC, Director of Internationalization of Education, and included:
Triza Mudita, Head of International Office, Venture and Cooperation, Faculty of Economics and Business
Dr. Isfandiarni, S.E., M.A., Head of International Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Economics and Business
Dr. Muthia Pramesti, S.E., M.M., Assistant Director of International Education Program Development and Partnership
Ms. Yura Meirani, International Association Officer
Ms. Hanny Kemala Fauster, International Visits Officer
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.
Photo Credit: Directorate for Internationalization of Education
