Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) once again showed its commitment to international cooperation by conducting an official visit to Murdoch University (MU), Perth, Australia, on October 30, 2024. This activity aims to strengthen academic partnerships, explore new collaboration opportunities, and evaluate ongoing initiatives.

The Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., and the delegation were received by the Vice Rector of MU, Prof. Andrew Deeks, in a friendly atmosphere at a luncheon. Prof. Kelly Smith, MU Pro Vice Chancellor International, also delivered a speech and explained the university’s strategic vision for global cooperation. Prof. Kelly Smith explained MU’s global focus on supporting educational partnerships and setting up, which was the beginning of the collaborative discussions that followed.

In the presentation session, Dr. Martin Anda highlighted the Faculty of Engineering’s collaboration with MU, while Dr. David Zhang highlighted the cooperation with the Faculty of Economics and Business, including ongoing projects and grants. An exchange of souvenirs was the symbolic conclusion of this formal meeting, symbolizing the positive relationship of both institutions.

Afterwards, representatives from the College of Business, College of Environmental & Life Sciences, College of Health and Education, and MU Research Office engaged with the Unram delegation in a networking session, discussing potential areas of mutual interest and collaboration. The activity concluded with a tour to Boola Katitjin, MU’s state-of-the-art learning facility that demonstrates innovative educational spaces.

The visit yielded important results for the development of the relationship between the two institutions. Collaboration between the Faculty of Economics and Business and MU continues, with several grant applications under evaluation, including the New Colombo Plan Mobility Program, KONEKSI Research Grant, and QS Reimagine Education Award.

In addition, MU expressed interest in expanding collaboration with Unram’s Faculty of Education and Teacher Training, with plans to initiate further discussions regarding faculty exchanges, joint research, and curriculum development. Both universities also recognized the potential partnership between MU and Unram’s Language Center, which focuses on teaching Indonesian to promote cultural exchange and language proficiency.

Lastly, MU proposed developing a partnership with Unram’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences focused on health research, student mobility, and training programs.

Overall, the visit strengthened existing relationships as well as opens up new opportunities for collaboration between Unram and MU. Both institutions are committed to following up on these discussions, ensuring continued growth and mutual benefits in various academic and research programs together.