Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding with PT Sumbawa Timur Mining (STM) on Friday, 11 August 2023 in the Rector’s Meeting Room, Unram Rectorate.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by the Rector of Unram, Prof.  Ir.  Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D.  and the Director of PT STM, Bede Beresford Evans.

The Rector of Unram welcomed the cooperation offered, because PT STM had previously provided more than 40 scholarships and Unram had the opportunity to send its students to do internships at PT STM.

“We are very pleased with the visit from PT STM. And after signing the MoU, we can discuss collaborations with experts from Unram,” explained Prof.  Bambang.

In addition, the Director of PT STM explained that the company is engaged in the mining sector and in the exploration stage.  For this reason, Evans is committed to always realizing and implementing the PT STM management system properly, one of which is by considering recommendations from tertiary institutions such as Unram.  Moreover, Unram has expertise in various fields such as soil science, forestry, marine science, civil engineering, architecture, environmental science, and others.

“We are committed to running a mining operation that is safe, reliable and utilizing green energy, and adopting best practices in what we do. But of course, with that Vision we cannot do it alone. Therefore, we expect cooperation from Unram, said Evans.

Delivered by Evans with the collaboration of Unram and PT STM, not only the two institutions will both benefit.  However, young students will also benefit.

“This year we have made a sizeable contribution. We realize that education is important and part of our community program is education. We provide educational training for teachers in primary and secondary schools. We provide scholarships for students to go to university or vocational training,” he explained.

With this collaboration, PT STM is expected to be able to build and provide sustainable long-term benefits for children.

“Everyone knows how important education is.  And everyone here, I think, the benefits from a university education.  So we also want to support the development of education for children, as well as support their families,” he added,

He hopes that this MoU will become a door that can open discussions and opportunities for cooperation for the two institutions and for the community.