Zimbabwe Embassy visits UNAIR

As part of its commitment to global engagement in education, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) welcomed delegates from the Embassy of Zimbabwe on Friday (June 20, 2025) at the Balai Rua Meeting Room, MERR-C Campus Management Office. The meeting focused on exploring strategies for potential academic collaboration between UNAIR and institutions in Zimbabwe.

The Zimbabwean delegation included Z.R. Churu, M. Makururu, Dr. W. Kachere, C. Taringa, E. Chaoneka, and W. Mungate. Representing UNAIR were Prof. Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto DEA, DVM, Vice Rector for Academic, Student, and Alumni Affairs, and Dina Septiani, BComm, MComn, PhD, Deputy Director of Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE).

During the discussion, Mr. Churu highlighted Zimbabwe’s ongoing collaborations with Indonesia, including scholarship and postgraduate programs. He also emphasized the potential for deeper engagement with UNAIR to enhance international exposure and broaden educational impact for Zimbabwean students.

“We are eager to work with UNAIR on educational initiatives such as student exchanges, joint degree programs, scholarships for Zimbabwean students, and collaborative research. We are also grateful to UNAIR for welcoming Zimbabwean students to study in Indonesia,” he remarked.

In response, AGE representative Dina Septiani outlined several opportunities for bilateral cooperation in education. She emphasized that these initiatives could foster mutual knowledge exchange and further strengthen diplomatic ties between the two countries.

“We are fully open to future partnerships. UNAIR can offer staff and student exchange programs, joint lectures, research co-supervision, collaborative studies, and international internships. For scholarships, the Indonesian AID program from the Ministry of Finance currently supports three academic disciplines: psychology, pharmacy, and Islamic economics,” she explained.

Dina also introduced the Airlangga Development Scholarship (ADS) for international students at the master’s and doctoral levels. This scholarship includes free Indonesian language training, full tuition coverage, and living expense support.

“UNAIR also provides scholarships for one-semester exchange programs, covering tuition fees, English-language classes, and Indonesian language instruction. Students not enrolled in regular coursework may instead participate in internships or research activities tuition-free,” she concluded.

Branding and Marketing Seminar

Product identity and marketing strategy have become fundamental to the success of selling goods and services. In today’s increasingly competitive market landscape, communities are required not only to produce goods but also to understand how to present their products effectively to consumers. For small and medium enterprises in rural areas, branding and marketing often remain underdeveloped aspects.

In Pemepek Village, Pringgarata Subdistrict, Central Lombok, small-scale businesses have been steadily emerging as a community-driven effort to improve household and village-level economies. Various local groups have tapped into surrounding natural resources, from agricultural yields to home-based food processing, to create value-added products. However, many of these products still face low competitiveness due to a limited understanding of modern branding and digital marketing techniques.

To address this challenge, students of the University of Mataram‘s 2025 Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata or KKN) initiated a capacity-building seminar titled “Meningkatkan Daya Saing Produk melalui Branding, Marketing, dan Kesetaraan Gender Pelaku Usaha” (Enhancing Product Competitiveness through Branding, Marketing, and Gender Equality in Entrepreneurship) held on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, at the KHDTK Rarung Hall. The program specifically targeted two active business groups in Repok Pidendang Hamlet: the Women Farmers Group (Kelompok Wanita Tani Mekar Harum) and the Cooperative Syari’ah Wana Makmur Lestari.

For the KKN students, community engagement is not merely a ceremonial activity but a direct embodiment of Indonesia’s Tri Dharma of Higher Education, teaching, research, and community service. This initiative served as a bridge between theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom and the practical needs of society.

“We witnessed firsthand how many local entrepreneurs produce high-quality goods but struggle to sell them due to unattractive packaging or limited digital marketing skills,” one of the student organizers said. “Through this activity, we aimed to share knowledge while learning from the community.”

The seminar featured key speakers from the Cooperative and Small Medium Enterprise (SME) Service of Central Lombok, including Endang Triwindusari, SP., MM (Head of SME Division), Ani (Young Functional Expert for Small Medium Enterprises), and Baiq Mentari (Technical Staff for Small Medium Enterprises). Discussions included building strong local product identities, utilizing platforms like Instagram and e-marketplaces, and applying packaging standards aligned with modern retail expectations.

Beyond the technical aspects, the seminar also highlighted the importance of gender equality in entrepreneurship. Professor Dr. Ir. Ruth Stella Petrunella Thei, M.S., Lecturer at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mataram, delivered a session on Gender Equality. She stressed that inclusive village development cannot be achieved without empowering women.

“Men and women have equal rights and opportunities. Gender is a social construct that evolves. Empowering women in the economic sector is part of building sustainable communities,” she stated during the session.

The initiative was well received by the local government. Muhali, the village secretary of Pemepek, expressed his appreciation and support for the program, noting its positive impact on strengthening local business capacity in the face of a changing market environment.

Participants remained engaged throughout the event, actively posing questions and discussing marketing challenges, many of which stem from relying solely on traditional sales methods such as word-of-mouth or local markets.

Through this activity, the University of Mataram students not only shared academic insights but also fostered intergenerational collaboration and mutual learning. The long-term goal is to empower Usaha Mikro, Kecil dan Menengah (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), particularly women-led groups, to grow their businesses independently, creatively, and sustainably.a

FISIP USU Student Takes Global Step to Rome

Shafa Yasmin As Sajidah, a student from the Department of Political Science at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), has been selected to participate in a student exchange program at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. She will spend one semester in Rome during the Fall term of the 2025–2026 academic year, as part of a bilateral collaboration between USU and Sapienza University of Rome.

Shafa was nominated by the Kantor Urusan Internasional (KUI) of Universitas Sumatera Utara after successfully passing a document-based selection process. The requirements included a minimum GPA of 3.00 and a foreign language proficiency certificate at the B2 level or higher. She independently managed the entire application process, including document preparation, form submissions, visa arrangements, and securing accommodation.

At Sapienza University of Rome, Shafa will take courses at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. Although most Political Science classes at the host university are taught in Italian, the academic system allows exchange students to enroll in interdisciplinary subjects that are relevant to their major and eligible for credit transfer at Universitas Sumatera Utara.

The program adopts a co-funding model: tuition fees are waived by the host university, while expenses such as travel, visa, accommodation, and daily living costs are the responsibility of the participant. In preparing for her departure, Shafa also consulted with members of the Indonesian Student Association in Rome (ISAR) for guidance and support.

Her participation highlights how students at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences actively pursue international opportunities with initiative and independence. While the faculty is not directly involved in the program’s administration, it supports academic flexibility to enable students to engage in similar initiatives when applicable.

“This is my first time going aboard. I felt nervous at first, but my excitement is even greater. I hope this becomes the starting point for more opportunities, both for myself and others on campus,” said Shafa.

Her journey reflects a broader trend of Indonesian students participating in international academic exchanges, underscoring the growing global engagement of institutions like Universitas Sumatera Utara.

Collaboration between UPI & Tashkent State University

Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia welcomed the arrival of the leaders of Tashkent State University of Economics, namely Sirojiddin Juramorodovich Yangiboev as Dean of the Faculty of International Double Degree Program TSUE, Sultanbek Azatdinov as Faculty member of TSUE and Sultonali Umaralievich Mekhmonov as Vice Rector for Academic Affairs TSUE to carry out the signing of the extension of the implementation of cooperation between the Faculty of Economics and Business Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia with Tashkent State University of Economics, Uzbekistan.

 

Rector Universitas Pendidikan INdonesia, Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A. expressed his appreciation for the extension of the implementation of the collaboration between the Faculty of Economics and Business Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, and Tashkent State University of Economics, Uzbekistan. Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A. was present and signed the implementation of the collaboration which is valid for 5 years starting from 2025 to 2029.

 

Dean of FPEB UPI, Prof. Dr. Ratih Hurriyati, MP, CSBA and Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, MA were present in person and signed the implementation of the cooperation which is valid for 5 years starting from 2025 to 2029.

 

Dean of FPEB UPI, Prof. Dr. Ratih Hurriyati, MP, CSBA explained that the implementation of the collaboration was carried out in the Tridharma program, Dual Bachelor Degree program, Dual Master Degree collaboration in the fields of Accounting, Management, Economic Education and International conferences.

 

Prof. Dr. Ratih Hurriyati, MP, CSBA explained that it was a special opportunity for FPEB UPI because we would be hosting our valued partners from TSUE. “As we know, this collaboration is an important milestone for both of our institutions, and we are proud of the progress that has been achieved, especially through the dual degree program that continues to benefit our students and encourage mutual academic enrichment,” she said.

 

Collaborative agenda not only reflects on our past achievements but also explores future initiatives and ensures continued success. He hopes that this visit, which includes a tour of our academic facilities, will provide a deeper understanding of our environment and our commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.

USU Supports Women Empowerment Abroad

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) continues to demonstrate its commitment to global issues through internationally oriented community engagement programs. One of its recent initiatives focuses on promoting the welfare and resilience of Indonesian Female Migrant Workers (PMPI) in Hong Kong. From June 15 to 17, 2025, Universitas Sumatera Utara carried out a community service program titled “Resilient PMPI: Building Resilience and Welfare of Indonesian Female Migrant Workers through the Strengthening of Psychological, Gender, and Social Capacities.” The initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Association of Indonesian Migrant Workers in Hong Kong (ATKI-HK) and the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman (UNSOED).

Universitas Sumatera Utara delegation consisted of Dr. Harmona Daulay (expert in gender sociology), Dr. Meutia Nauly (psychology), Dr. Detania Sukarja (economic law), and Fredick Broven Ekayanta (political science). They were joined by Dr. Tyas Retno Wulan, S.Sos., M.Si., from Universitas Jenderal Soedirman (UNSOED). This interdisciplinary collaboration brought together diverse perspectives in addressing the complex challenges faced by Indonesian female migrant workers. By integrating sociological, psychological, legal, and political approaches, the team was able to propose more holistic and field-responsive solutions.

The program was founded on the reality that many Indonesian female migrant workers in Hong Kong face serious challenges, including intense work pressure, limited access to mental health services, discrimination, and a lack of legal literacy. These difficulties became even more severe during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to increased social isolation and heavier workloads. “Many of them do not have access to adequate work facilities or private rooms to rest. Some sleep in kitchens. Other serious cases include out-of-wedlock pregnancies and abuse by employers,” explained Dr. Harmona Daulay.

Using an educational and participatory approach, the program aimed to support PMPI in strengthening their psychological and social resilience. The participants were also encouraged to understand their rights as migrant workers, develop gender awareness, and foster community solidarity. “The goal is for migrant women to develop gender consciousness, understand social remittances, and recognize that when they face problems, they can turn to the law for protection,” she added.

This initiative successfully created a safe and empowering learning environment while strengthening social networks among participants. The outcomes of the program will be further developed into educational materials, video documentation, and academic publications in order to expand its impact. This initiative is also part of USU’s internationalization strategy and supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting gender equality, protecting migrant workers, and improving social welfare.

Through this program, Universitas Sumatera Utara affirms its role beyond academia as a committed partner in advancing humanity and social justice. For Indonesian migrant women in Hong Kong, the presence of the team became a gesture of solidarity and meaningful support.

UNAIR and UNICEF to advance children’s rights

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted the Public Dissemination of the East Java 2025–2029 Integrated Sub-National Financing Framework (ISFF) on Thursday (June 12, 2025). The event took place in the Majapahit Room, 5th Floor of the ASEEC Tower on UNAIR’s Dharmawangsa-B Campus, and served as a forum to explore alternative regional financing strategies aimed at advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular emphasis on children’s rights.

The initiative was a collaboration between UNICEF, the East Java Provincial Government, and UNAIR through the Airlangga Institute for Learning and Growth (AILG). It brought together representatives from government ministries, international institutions, academia, and multi-sector development partners to address how sub-national financing models can accelerate inclusive development.

ISFF: Bridging policy for regional financing

Dr. Eko Supeno, Chair of AILG, praised the initiative and emphasized the importance of ISFF in promoting equitable development—especially for children. “UNAIR is committed to making a meaningful contribution through research and policy advocacy,” he said.

Also in attendance was Wiwien Apriliani from Indonesia’s National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), who emphasized ISFF’s potential as a planning tool to identify development needs and funding priorities. She noted that East Java is the first province to localize the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF), originally introduced at the United Nations in 2015. “This ISFF document was first introduced at the UN in 2015, and has since become a vital framework guiding local SDG implementation,” she explained.

Tackling stunting and water access challenges

UNICEF Indonesia’s Chief of Social Policy, Yoshimi Nishino, pointed out that one in four children in East Java lives in poverty and that 47 percent suffer from stunting. Addressing these issues, she said, will require innovative financing strategies. “We want to drive cross-sector collaboration so that development funding extends beyond government budgets. This includes tapping into private sector investment, philanthropy, and zakat institutions,” she said.

UNICEF estimates that achieving the SDGs in East Java by 2030 will require approximately IDR 1,700 trillion. The ISFF document has already identified 17 public and private financing opportunities totaling around IDR 200 trillion. This represents a significant starting point for tackling stunting, expanding access to clean water and sanitation, and improving human development outcomes.

Responding to the challenges highlighted by UNICEF, Dr. Tri Wahyu Liswati, Head of East Java’s Office for Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, and Population (DP3AK), emphasized the strong collaboration between local government and UNICEF in advancing child-focused initiatives.

“ISFF reflects our shared commitment with UNICEF to develop accountable and sustainable financing solutions that serve the future of East Java’s children,” she said.

Organizers hope this dissemination event serves not just as a ceremonial milestone, but as the first step toward meaningful collective action and long-term investment in children’s futures across East Java.(*)

ITS’ Professor Awarded Prestigious UK Grant

A groundbreaking achievement from the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has once again placed Indonesia on the international research map. Professor Dr. rer. pol. Heri Kuswanto, a leading expert from the Department of Statistics at ITS, has been awarded a prestigious research grant from the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA).

Out of around 120 global submissions, only 21 research proposals were selected by ARIA, and ITS stands proudly as the only institution from Indonesia to receive this honor. With a grant totaling £345,000, Prof. Heri now joins the ranks of researchers from world-renowned institutions such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London.

His research project, titled “Towards Robust and Unbiased Validation of SAI Simulations (TRUSS): Advancing Ensemble Calibration for Reliable Geoengineering Impact Analysis”, aims to tackle a major challenge in climate science, ensuring that simulations used in geoengineering, specifically Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI), are reliable and free from bias. SAI is a form of Solar Radiation Management (SRM), an increasingly discussed technology that involves dispersing particles in the stratosphere to reflect sunlight and reduce global temperatures.

“Current climate models often rely on averaging data across multiple simulations, overlooking the significant variability between models. This leads to biased results and can jeopardize climate policy decisions,” Prof. Heri explained. To address this, the TRUSS project proposes an innovative approach by integrating Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) with machine learning algorithms such as XGBoost. The goal: a more robust and scientifically valid framework for evaluating the impact of SRM. “This isn’t just a technical breakthrough; it will provide crucial scientific evidence to guide future global climate strategies,” he emphasized. The research will focus on Indonesia and Southeast Asia, analyzing how SRM might influence extreme droughts, rainfall patterns, and other regional climate indicators. Model validation will be performed by comparing simulations with historical climate data.

Prof. Heri, who recently participated in the Degrees Global Forum (DGF) 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, is collaborating with international experts, including Dr. Daniela Visioni from Cornell University (USA) and Dr. Matthew Henry from the UK. The three-year project will also engage two fellow ITS Statistics lecturers and five students from statistics and informatics programs, ensuring strong local capacity building in data science and climate modeling.

Originally from Gresik, Prof. Heri views this grant not only as a personal achievement but also as a testament to Indonesia’s scientific capability on the world stage. “This recognition affirms ITS’ position as a global player in cutting-edge, fundamental research,” he said. The TRUSS project directly contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—most notably Goal 13: Climate Action, Goal 4: Quality Education, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. It strengthens the role of higher education in fostering innovation and global collaboration to safeguard the future of our planet. This achievement also reflects ITS’ growing impact as a world-class research university—a hub where local brilliance meets global challenges.

 

Hungarian Embassy collaborates with UNAIR

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) welcomed a visit from the Hungarian Embassy on Wednesday (June 4, 2025), highlighting promising prospects for academic collaboration between Hungarian educational institutions and UNAIR. The visit included a formal meeting held at the Rectorate Room, 4th Floor, UNAIR Management Office, Campus MERR-C.

UNAIR was represented by Vice Rector for Academic, Student, and Alumni Affairs, Prof. Dr. Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto DEA, Drh; Vice Rector for Internationalization, Digitalization, and Information Prof. Dr. Muhammad Miftahussurur, Dr., M.Kes., Sp.PD-KGEH, Ph.D.; Deputy Director of Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) Dina Septiani, Ph.D.; and AGE International Corners Coordinator Ahmad Safril Mubah, Ph.D. Representing Hungarian Embassy were H.E. Lilla Karsay, Ambassador of Hungary in Jakarta and Cultural and Education Attaché Patricia Nora Pankovics.

Prof. Lukiswanto highlighted that UNAIR has established academic partnerships with 24 of the 27 European Union member states. “Our international collaborations were primarily facilitated through the International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) program, which enabled approximately 128 students to study in Europe. Unfortunately, the IISMA program could not be continued due to recent policy changes by the Indonesian government,” he explained.

Strategic initiatives and flagship programs

Prof. Miftahussurur shared UNAIR’s efforts to enhance educational quality, particularly through digitalization. One of the university’s major strides in this area is the implementation of e-learning platforms. He emphasized that digital transformation is essential both as a system integrator and as a foundation for developing flagship programs.

“UNAIR’s e-learning program was launched in response to the inevitable shift in learning methods during the pandemic, marking a significant step toward adaptable, modern education,” said Prof. Miftahussurur.

UNAIR also introduced programs designed to attract international students. Dr. Mubah, speaking as the Coordinator of International Corners at AGE, presented the AMERTA program (Academic Mobility Exchange for Undergraduate and Master at Airlangga). AMERTA allows international students to study at UNAIR for one semester, offering courses that reflect Indonesia’s distinctive academic and cultural perspectives.

“This program welcomes international students interested in courses offering unique Indonesian perspectives, particularly in the fields of social and cultural studies, economics, natural sciences, and health or life sciences,” he explained.

Opportunities for bilateral cooperation

Ambassador Karsay affirmed Hungary’s commitment to advancing educational collaboration. She mentioned various academic offerings including double-degree, triple-degree, and Ph.D. programs, alongside scholarship opportunities for international students.

“We are open to broad collaborations, particularly involving UNAIR’s many faculties. We also hope to facilitate guest lectures by UNAIR professors at universities in Hungary,” said Ambassador Karsay.

She also pointed to existing partnerships between Hungarian and Indonesian institutions, particularly in research and development. “These include partnerships in education and nuclear science. We also have an MoU with Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) focusing on nuclear cooperation,” she added.

Universitas Airlangga hosts HITEX 2025

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) proudly hosted the 2025 Research Invention and Community Development Exhibition (HITEX), a showcase highlighting innovations and research from universities and industry collaborators. Held at the Airlangga Convention Center, the exhibition ran from Tuesday to Wednesday, May 20–21, 2025.

Timed to coincide with Indonesia’s National Awakening Day, UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, M.T., Ak., C.A., expressed his pride in the university hosting the inaugural HITEX. “We’re honored and grateful to host this exhibition, presenting research from UNAIR and other PTN-BH institutions. Celebrating National Awakening Day through a meaningful and substantive event—rather than a purely ceremonial one—adds real value,” he stated.

Commitment to public accountability

As a public event, HITEX welcomed community members to engage with and evaluate UNAIR’s research initiatives. Prof. Nasih described the exhibition as a reflection of the university’s accountability for public, government, and student funding. He also hoped that the exhibited innovations would gain traction with industry partners.

“By opening this event to the public and media, we demonstrate our responsibility to be transparent with how public and government funds are used. The public has a right to see what our research yields—proof that we are actively producing knowledge and technology, and passing that on to our students,” said the professor from the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB).

University that drives change

HITEX also served as a platform to underscore UNAIR’s mission of creating meaningful societal impact. The university reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national programs aimed at developing higher education institutions that generate both social and economic value. Prof. Nasih stressed that UNAIR’s research should respond to community needs.

“Our goal is for UNAIR’s products to replace materials we currently import—especially in healthcare. If we can produce these locally, why rely on imports? This is a major challenge for us as we strive to become a university that makes a tangible difference socially and economically,” he explained.

Prof. Nasih also emphasized UNAIR’s openness to collaborating with other universities to create broader, human-centered impact. He noted that this vision aligns with the university’s core strategy—delivering high personal value while contributing on local, national, and global levels.

 

 

 

UNAIR showcases global education at AERO 2025

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted Airlangga Expanding Reach and Opportunities (AERO) 2025 on Friday, May 9, 2025. Organized by Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), the event took place at the Boulevard Area near the Campus B Library in Dharmawangsa and welcomed more than a dozen of UNAIR’s international partners.

AERO 2025 offered students an immersive experience to explore international opportunities in education, career development, and cultural exchange. Representatives from UNAIR’s global partners set up informational booths, providing firsthand insights into programs and opportunities abroad. The event represents UNAIR’s ongoing commitment to advancing internationalization on campus.

Strengthening global collaboration

Prof. Dr. Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto, DEA, DVM, UNAIR’s Vice Rector for Academic, Student, and Alumni Affairs, delivered a warm welcome to students and institutional partners. “I am incredibly proud and inspired by the students and partners participating in this event. It is an honor to welcome you into the UNAIR community,” he said.

Prof. Lukiswanto emphasized that AERO is not just an opportunity for growth but also a vital platform for collaboration. He encouraged all participants to engage meaningfully with global partners, hoping the event would contribute positively to the evolution of future education.

“The creativity and innovation showcased at AERO 2025 affirm UNAIR’s role as a breeding ground for forward-thinking individuals, ready to tackle global challenges. This event is part of our broader mission to forge impactful collaborations that shape the future of education,” he added.

International booths and student engagement

AERO 2025 featured a range of international booths where students could receive direct consultation on postgraduate studies, exchange programs, and global career opportunities. The booths also highlighted cultural exchange, drawing a large crowd of enthusiastic visitors.

In addition to the exhibitions, AERO 2025 offered a variety of interactive sessions that connected students with international partners. These sessions provided detailed guidance on study and career paths abroad. The agenda also included Global Talks with foreign university partners, offering insights into international academic landscapes. Another key highlight was AERO Spotlight: Alumni and Student Success Stories, which celebrated inspiring achievements of UNAIR alumni and students worldwide.