Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) officially established cooperation with Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union (SLC-SFLU), Philippines, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) held virtually through Zoom Meeting on Friday (21/3).

The event began with remarks from Leo Esteene L. Galap, Ph.D., as Global Affairs Officer of SLC-SFLU, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the two institutions in improving academic quality and expanding international networks.

“This partnership aims to present various opportunities, not only for students and lecturers, but also in building and expanding knowledge in various fields. This MoU is certainly related to the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, which is expected to be the basis for a formal partnership between Unram and SLC-SFLU and strengthen the harmonious relationship between the two institutions,” he said.

In addition, Viviene Aisha Gugol-Baker, as Head of College Information and Marketing Office SLC-SFLU, also expressed her appreciation for the initiation of this collaboration.

“This cooperation can increase internationalization to support the existence of the institution. We have established similar cooperation with various countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian countries. Hopefully, from this cooperation, mutual beneficial international programs can be born,” she said.

Furthermore, a representative from Unram, Dr. Dewi Satria Elmiana, Vice Head of Unram’s International Affairs Office, gave a presentation on Unram’s profile and the various academic and research programs offered.

On this occasion, the Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., said that this collaboration is expected to open opportunities for students and lecturers from both institutions to collaborate in academics, research, as well as student and academic staff exchange programs.

“We realize there is still a lot of potential that can be explored. As we continue to expand our global engagement, we recognized the need to establish new collaborations with other prestigious universities in the Philippines. By doing so, we can expand opportunities for joint research, faculty and student exchanges, and academic programs that align with our shared goals,” he explained.

“This MoU is not just a formal agreement, but also a commitment to academic excellence, cultural exchange and innovation. I believe this collaboration will bring great benefits to our students, lecturers and researchers, as well as pave the way for future breakthroughs and stronger ties between our institutions. On behalf of the University of Mataram, I would like to thank our partners in the Philippines for their trust and commitment to this collaboration. Let us together turn this vision into reality and create a sustainable impact in the global academic community,” he concluded.

The signing of the MoU ceremony was signed by the Rector of Unram and Lea L. De Guzman, Ed.D., as Vice President for Academic Affairs of SLC-SFLU. With this agreement, it is hoped that the relationship between Unram and SLC-SFLU is getting closer, and can provide benefits for both institutions in developing quality higher education at the international level.