Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) and Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), Philippines, officially renewed and strengthened academic cooperation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This event took place in a hybrid manner on February 5, 2025 at the Rector’s Conference Room and through a Zoom Meeting by CBSUA.

On this occasion, the Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., expressed his support and commitment to the partnerships that have been established over the past five years. “If we have been friends for five years, it feels like we are like family. I hope we have indeed reached that stage. This is not only about the success of our academic partnership, but also the close friendship between our institutions and nations,” he said.

Since the beginning of the program, especially in the International Credit Transfer Program (ICTP) scheme, Unram has received around 152 CBSUA students in the study programs of English Education, Animal Science, and Chemistry Education. In addition, both institutions have visited each other more than once and Unram has hosted more than 20 CBSUA students reciprocally.

Prof. Bambang also emphasized the importance of realizing the joint degree and double degree program plans that have been discussed since last year.

“This is one of the partnerships that has contributed the most to our world university ranking. This program has provided invaluable opportunities for our students to develop academic skills, cross-cultural exchange, and global competence, so let’s make it happen this year, from credit transfer to double degree program,” he concluded.

Dr. Alberto N. Naperi, DPA, as SUC President of CBSUA affirmed that this partnership provides many benefits for both institutions. “Engaging with partners from ASEAN will help our university become more globally recognized. I always remind students that international collaboration is essential as it opens up opportunities for cultural exchange and boosts their confidence. We are very grateful to Unram and fully support the continuation of this cooperation,” he said.

On the other hand, Ahmad Junaidi, Ph.D. on the occasion also gave an overview of the partnership between Unram and CBSUA, highlighting various activities that have taken place since 2021, even before that. “We have a long-term cooperation and there are still many things we can do in the future. This friendship has now transformed into a strategic partnership. Let us continue to grow together,” he said.

The signing of this MoU reaffirms the commitment of both institutions in strengthening academic collaboration, providing wider opportunities for students to experience international experience, and supporting Unram’s vision towards a world-class university.