Three universities join WUACD

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) strengthens its global leadership through Rector Meeting at World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) Summit 2026. The forum results in international network expansion through signing of Letter of Commitment by Eastern Visayas State University, Mindanao State University from Philippines, and Bayero University Kano from Nigeria. These three institutions further expand WUACD collaboration from Southeast Asia to Africa. WUACD President and Rector of Universitas Airlangga, Prof Dr Muhammad Madyan SE MSi MFin expresses that addition of new members proves growing trust of world universities in WUACD. “Over the past year, WUACD continues to strengthen its role as a collaboration platform in education, research, community service, and international engagement. We also welcome three new institutions that we believe will open wider collaboration opportunities for all WUACD members,” Prof. Madyan said.

Prof Madyan added that Rector Meeting also serves as a forum to evaluate organization achievements in the first half of 2026 and map out future strategic direction of WUACD. Discussion results will be translated into collaborative programs within four main pillars: Innovative Education and Lifelong Learning, Social Development and Multiculture, Health and Environment, and Sustainable Economy. In addition to membership expansion, the meeting marks strengthening of strategic partnership between WUACD and COMSTECH. This collaboration will open wider opportunities for universities in development of education, research, and community empowerment.

COMSTECH Coordinator General, Prof. Choudhary assessed that international collaboration is key to facing constantly changing future of education. “This meeting is celebration of friendship. Friendship to develop science and empower community. Building future can only be done through collaboration, because education must remain relevant amidst uncertain future,” Prof. Choudhary said. Prof. Choudhary added that future universities need to adopt various global adjustments, including flexible, project-based learning supported by artificial intelligence, while still prioritizing human skills.

New members ready to expand community service impact

WUACD commitment has received positive response from new members. Representative of Bayero University Kano, Dr Aminu Muhammad, mentions that signing of Letter of Commitment holds great significance for his institution. “The commitment we receive from UNAIR through WUACD means a lot to us. We are ready to move forward together to realize various forms of collaboration,” Dr Muhammad said.

According to Dr. Muhammad, Bayero University is ready to develop cooperation through student mobility, student exchange, and community service programs. He also invited more universities to join WUACD. “The essence of education is returning to the community and presenting real impact. Therefore, I invite more universities to join WUACD. Let’s bring wider benefits to the community,” Dr. Muhammad concluded.

Through membership expansion, partnership strengthening with COMSTECH, and formulation of organization priority programs, WUACD under UNAIR leadership further confirms its role as a global university network that delivers impactful collaboration for the world community.

UNAIR and Khalifa Uni. expands partnership

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted an honorary delegation from the United Arab Emirates’ Khalifa University on Thursday, June 25, 2026. The meeting, held in the Balairua Plenary Room at Campus Management Office, focused on exploring potential academic collaborations and deepening bilateral ties on the global stage.

UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, S.E., M.Si., M.Fin., led the university’s leadership team in welcoming the delegation. The Khalifa University delegation was led by Provost Prof. Bayan Sharif and Dr. Ashraf Najdawi (Acting Vice President, External Relations).

During his opening remarks, Prof. Madyan expressed immense pride in hosting representatives from one of the UAE’s leading higher education institutions. He noted that the timing of the visit was particularly auspicious, aligning with a major milestone for the Indonesian university.

“We are delighted and deeply honored by this visit, which comes at a momentous time as Universitas Airlangga celebrates a significant leap in the QS World University Rankings, climbing from 287th to 276th globally,” Prof. Madyan said.

Prof. Madyan emphasized that this milestone underscores UNAIR’s enduring commitment to elevating educational quality, research output, and global prestige. He expressed optimism that both institutions would translate these discussions into actionable programs that deliver meaningful outcomes for their respective academic communities.

Responding to the warm welcome, Prof. Sharif praised UNAIR’s hospitality and offered high commendations for the institution. He shared his impressions of the campus alongside a brief overview of Khalifa University’s own rapid institutional growth. “Thank you very much for hosting us. It is an immense honor and pleasure to visit Universitas Airlangga, and this marks my very first time traveling to Indonesia,” Prof. Sharif noted.

He expressed great admiration for the sheer scale of UNAIR, which was founded in 1954, contrasting it with his own institution’s trajectory. “Reviewing your university’s metrics is truly remarkable, especially considering we are a relatively young institution preparing to celebrate our 10th anniversary next year,” he added.

Closing the session, Prof. Sharif warmly embraced UNAIR’s proposed collaborative frameworks and affirmed his institution’s readiness to formalize the partnership. “We are thrilled to be here, and the proposed areas of cooperation align perfectly with our strategic goals. We share a deep commitment and look forward to working closely with UNAIR to advance these joint initiatives,” he concluded.

FK promotes bone health awareness in Malaysia

Musculoskeletal disorders linked to modern lifestyle changes became the focus of an international community service program organized by doctoral students from the Faculty of Medicine (FK) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). The interactive educational outreach and consultation services were held at the Pusat Komuniti Limpahan Kasih One Stop Centre Aman Bistari in Puchong, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Wednesday (May 20, 2026).

The session on the importance of maintaining bone density across all age groups, from children to older adults, was delivered by dr. Zainurrahman Kurnia Putra, SpOT, MKedKlin. He emphasized the growing number of musculoskeletal complaints caused by sedentary habits, including prolonged sitting.

“Every physical activity matters. Daily movement can serve as a long-term investment in bone density, helping prevent bone fragility later in life. Every move matters,” dr. Zainurrahman said.

In addition to the educational presentation, the student delegation also provided one-on-one consultation sessions. One senior participant, Rabaah, 55, used the opportunity to seek advice regarding physical discomfort and ways to maintain joint mobility in older age.

The lively and successful event was made possible through the strong collaboration of 18 doctoral students from FK UNAIR. The delegation reflected interdisciplinary teamwork involving physicians, midwives, nurses, medical laboratory technologists, researchers, lecturers, and public health specialists. Team members worked together to facilitate consultations, guide participants, and assist children during movement simulations.

The engaging format of the educational session generated enthusiasm among attendees. Fatin Nur Huda, 11, said she greatly enjoyed the program. “It was really exciting! Now I want to join more running competitions and activities so I can exercise more often,” she said.

Zahwa Arsy Azzahra, ST, MSi, a public relations representative for the International Community Service and Student Outbound Program of the Doctoral Program in Medical Science, said the team intentionally expanded information dissemination through media platforms to strengthen promotive and preventive health education efforts.

“We hope the message about maintaining physical health from childhood through old age can reach a broader community,” she said.

FKp UNAIR expands research partnership

The Faculty of Nursing (FKp) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has further strengthened its international academic network through a Full-Time Staff Outbound program at the Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkla University (PSU) in Thailand, held from May 18–22, 2026. The initiative was part of an ongoing international research initiative titled “Decision-Making Support Model for ICU Nurses in Providing Culturally Based Palliative Care.”

Representing FKp UNAIR were Dr Yulis Setiya Dewi Skep Ns MNg and Dr Ninuk Dian Kurniawati SKep Ns MANP. During the five-day program, the delegation engaged in a series of academic activities with PSU faculty members, including joint research discussions, collaborative data analysis, research model development, and meetings aimed at exploring future strategic partnerships.

According to Dr. Yulis Setiya Dewi, the program was intended to enhance the quality of the ongoing study while creating broader opportunities for international collaboration in critical care and palliative nursing research. “Through intensive exchanges with PSU researchers, we gained valuable academic perspectives that will contribute to refining the Decision-Making Support Model for ICU nurses delivering cultural-based palliative care,” she said.

At a Joint Research Meeting on May 19, 2026, research teams from both universities reviewed findings from quantitative and qualitative studies and conducted collaborative data analysis to strengthen the reliability and rigor of the research. The discussions also produced a framework for developing two manuscripts that are expected to be submitted to internationally recognized academic journals.

Expanding double-degree initiatives

Beyond research collaboration, the UNAIR delegation met with PSU’s Deputy Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Deputy Dean for International Affairs. The discussions focused on opportunities to establish double-degree and joint-degree programs at the graduate level. The meetings also explored potential collaborative projects in cardiovascular critical and emergency care, as well as aesthetic nursing research, an area in which PSU has established significant academic expertise.

On May 21, 2026, the UNAIR delegation participated in a strategic meeting with the leadership of PSU’s Faculty of Nursing. The session resulted in a mutual commitment to expand cooperation in research, international publications, faculty and student exchanges, and the development of long-term global academic partnerships.

A notable outcome of the visit was the addition of two international scholars from PSU to FKp UNAIR’s Academic Peer List (APL): Prof. Dr. Waraporn Kongsuwan, a specialist in Critical Care Nursing, and Dr. Kanthima Meesoonthorn, an expert in Cardiovascular Nursing. Their participation is expected to further support the faculty’s internationalization efforts and strengthen the quality of its scholarly publications.

The program also reinforced existing international agreements, generated plans for future joint research initiatives, and opened discussions on postgraduate co-supervision, student exchange opportunities, scientific writing summer camps, and staff mobility programs.

Through the Full-Time Staff Outbound initiative, the Faculty of Nursing at UNAIR reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the internationalization of higher education and enhancing the university’s standing as a globally engaged institution through impactful academic and research collaborations.

Students plant mangroves with FPK UNAIR

The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) reaffirmed its commitment to coastal conservation by organizing an international community service program focused on mangrove planting in the Gunung Anyar Mangrove area in Surabaya on Wednesday (May 7, 2026).

The initiative brought together 80 students and five international lecturers from universities in Malaysia,  including Universiti Malaya, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi MARA, and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia,  as well as from Thailand’s Kasetsart University and Silpakorn University. The event also involved 20 members of the academic community from FPK UNAIR’s undergraduate programs in Aquaculture and Fisheries Product Technology, along with graduate programs in Fisheries Product Biotechnology and Fisheries Science. Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences Dean Prof. Dr. Ir. Endang Dewi Masithah, M.P., and seven faculty members also attended the activity.

FPK UNAIR lecturer Ayulana Nafisyah, PhD, said the program represented a concrete contribution to sustainable coastal ecosystem rehabilitation efforts. Participants planted 100 mangrove seedlings in coastal areas that had previously been converted into aquaculture ponds.

She explained that the activity aimed to reforest the land and restore the ecological role of mangroves in maintaining environmental balance across terrestrial, estuarine, and marine ecosystems. “Beyond acting as a natural defense against coastal erosion and seawater intrusion, mangroves also provide habitats for aquatic species that support the sustainability of marine resources,” she said. Before the planting session, she also briefed participants on the ecological importance of mangroves.

The international community service program formed part of the university’s tridharma mission, particularly in the areas of community engagement and the internationalization of higher education. The participation of international students also reflected FPK UNAIR’s efforts to strengthen global collaboration centered on environmental sustainability issues. Cross-cultural interactions throughout the event further enriched participants’ learning experiences, particularly in understanding the challenges surrounding coastal ecosystem conservation in Indonesia.

During the program, participants were divided into groups to plant mangrove seedlings directly within the rehabilitation site. Prior to planting, the Gunung Anyar Mangrove management team provided guidance on the significance of mangrove ecosystems and proper planting techniques to ensure healthy seedling growth. Participants remained highly enthusiastic throughout the activity, especially as they became directly involved in coastal conservation efforts.

Vice Dean III Annur Ahadi Abdillah, SPi, MSi, PhD, said the initiative was designed not only to protect the environment but also to build collective awareness among students about the importance of sustainable coastal ecosystems. He added that the involvement of international students served as an important opportunity to strengthen global partnerships while introducing Indonesia’s conservation practices to the international community.

The activity also received recognition from the Head of the Surabaya Mangrove Botanical Garden Technical Implementation Unit (UPT), as reflected in an official certificate of appreciation. In addition to its ecological impact, the program served as an educational platform for students to better understand the importance of sustainable coastal resource management.

Through hands-on field experience, participants learned that conservation extends beyond theory and requires concrete action as well as collaboration among multiple stakeholders to ensure environmental sustainability. The program also aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 on Climate Action through coastal rehabilitation as a natural carbon sink, SDG 14 on Life Below Water by supporting coastal habitats and marine biodiversity, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals through international collaboration among students and academic communities from different countries. Through the initiative, FPK UNAIR hopes to continue fostering environmental conservation awareness and contribute positively to the long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems.

UNAIR establish cooperation with CUPL

Collaboration with international universities is one of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR)’s strategic efforts to advance world-class education. On Friday, March 27, 2026, UNAIR welcomed a visit from the China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL). The visit took place at the Plenary Meeting Room, 4th Floor, Management Office, MERR-C Campus.

The meeting was attended by UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, S.E., M.S.,i M.Fin., along with vice rectors. Representatives from the Faculty of Law (FH), Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), and Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) were also present. UNAIR Rector, Prof Madyan, stated that the collaboration between the two parties had begun through the Faculty of Law. The initiative served as a solid foundation to expand broader collaboration opportunities, including the academic exchange program agreed upon during the meeting.

“We believe that this collaboration initiative will enhance academic exchange between both parties and provide valuable global experience for our students,” Prof Madyan said.

Furthermore, the professor from the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) also outlined UNAIR’s commitment to making a meaningful impact at the international level. “UNAIR is committed to strengthening collaboration that contributes not only to academic excellence but also creates meaningful impact for society,” Prof Madyan said.

Prof Madyan hoped that the visit would further strengthen collaboration between both institutions and open up new opportunities for future collaboration. In line with Prof Madyan, Chair of CUPL University Council Jiang Zeting stated that UNAIR and CUPL have strong collaboration potential. He explained that CUPL, as one of the leading centers for legal and political studies in China, has established collaborations with various universities across Asia and worldwide.

UNAIR became one of the universities in Southeast Asia selected by CUPL to explore potential collaboration, particularly in academic exchange. “We believe that UNAIR and CUPL can develop promising collaborations in the future. We hope to strengthen collaboration in broader areas, such as research, innovation, and economics,” Jiang Zeting said.

UNAIR signs MoU with Chiang Mai University

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) continues to strengthen cross-border academic synergy through collaboration with Chiang Mai University (CMU), Thailand. The partnership was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. The signing ceremony took place on March 11, 2026, at the Dean’s Meeting Room, Faculty of Medicine (FK), Dharmahusada-A Campus, UNAIR.

The visit is considered crucial for fostering cooperation between the two universities, particularly involving the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) and the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK). Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development Prof Muhammad Miftahussurur, dr M Kes Sp PDKGEH PhD delivered a warm welcome to the delegation. He expressed his gratitude and hoped that the collaboration between Chiang Mai University and UNAIR would continue to develop. “I would like to thank the delegation from Chiang Mai University, Thailand, for the visit. We hope this cooperation can continue to grow in the future,” Prof Miftahussurur said.

Working on common grounds

Vice Dean for Research, Innovation, and Community Development of FST Prof Dr Fatmawati MSi revealed plans to expand collaboration with the Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University (CMU). According to her, the plan was based on the alignment of study programs that offer strong opportunities for cooperation. “FST previously met with representatives from Chiang Mai for a research project that will run for three years. Considering that an ASEAN-level mathematics research conference is held in Chiang Mai, FST UNAIR intends to expand collaboration with the Faculty of Science CMU,” Prof Fatmawati said.

In line with Prof. Fatmawati, Dean of FPK Prof Dr Endang Dewi Masithah Ir MP noted several promising opportunities for collaboration, including student and staff exchanges. This initiative also aligns with the community development program in Sebatik, established by FPK by inviting CMU students and staff to participate. “In addition, UNAIR has a research competition program called International Research Network (IRN) funded by the university to support collaboration with Chiang Mai University. There is also the possibility of collaboration with other universities,” Prof Masithah said.

Chiang Mai University responded positively to the proposed collaboration initiatives. This was reflected in a statement by Vice President of CMU Prof. of Practice Charin PhD, who noted that CMU not only plans to invite UNAIR staff for research collaboration and international conferences in Bangkok, but also aims to develop cooperation in student mobility programs. Through this strategic meeting between UNAIR and Chiang Mai University, both institutions hope the collaboration plans can be realized, particularly in student and staff mobility as well as community development programs in Indonesia and Chiang Mai.

UNAIR FV hosts ICAE with UiTM Melaka

Universitas Airlangga‘s The Faculty of Vocational Studies (FV) has organized an Inbound Collaborative Academic Engagement (ICAE) program to advance international academic cooperation. The initiative was spearheaded by the D4 Digital Office Management Study Program in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Melaka, Malaysia. The ICAE is structured as a series of joint activities running from January through April 2026. Vice Dean III of UNAIR Faculty of Vocational Studies, dr. Lailatul Muqmiroh, SpRad Subsp RI (K), highlighted the program’s strategic value for institutional growth.

“ICAE provides a key platform for expanding the Faculty of Vocational Studies’ global network. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen the quality of instruction, research, and skills development across our academic community,” dr. Muqmiroh said.

ICAE benchmarking marks the first phase of academic cooperation

A central component of the ICAE program was a benchmarking session held on Tuesday (January 27, 2026). The event was part of the Staff Inbound Full-time Program and included a visit from UiTM faculty members. Discussions focused on the management of the Digital Office Management Applied Bachelor’s Degree Program, its curriculum framework, and courses designed to build competencies in records management and office information systems.

Erindah Dimisqiyani, SAB, MAB, coordinator of the Digital Office Management Applied Bachelor’s Degree Program, explained why UiTM Melaka was selected as a partner. “Our academic disciplines closely align, allowing the benchmarking process to be both focused and productive. This partnership has also been established previously and will continue to be expanded,” she said.

During the presentations, the UNAIR team outlined the program’s curriculum design, expected learning outcomes, and hands-on learning experiences offered to students. Key topics included records management, business correspondence, office information systems, the integration of artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurial practice through Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).

The discussions also produced several preliminary agreements and plans for continued dialogue between UiTM Cawangan Melaka and the Faculty of Vocational Studies at UNAIR. The benchmarking and teaching mobility sessions were attended by 15 active lecturers from UiTM Melaka’s Office Management Study Program, alongside all faculty members from UNAIR’s Digital Office Management Applied Bachelor’s Degree Program. The collaboration is expected to move toward concrete outcomes, including the preparation of a memorandum of understanding to support sustained inter-program cooperation. 

UNAIR strengthens collaboration with IJN UC

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) continues to strengthen its global engagement in healthcare and higher education. During an official visit to the Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) Hospital and IJN University College (IJN UC) Malaysia on Wednesday (February 4, 2026), UNAIR expanded its strategic partnerships covering medical training, cardiovascular research, and patient-centered services.

The delegation was led by UNAIR Rector alongside senior university leaders. Their presence underscored the university’s commitment to forging international partnerships that are practical, sustainable, and capable of delivering long-term impact.

At the meeting, UNAIR conveyed its appreciation for the effective implementation of the existing Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), particularly the fellowship programs for healthcare professionals. The university also welcomed the ongoing transition in the management of the fellowship scheme, previously facilitated through IJN University College, viewing it as a step toward stronger academic coordination and improved educational standards.

In his address, UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, SE, MSi, MFin said the meeting marked a key opportunity to align perspectives while widening cross-faculty cooperation. “This meeting allows us to harmonize our understanding and further develop collaborative initiatives with the Faculty of Pharmacy, Faculty of Nursing, Faculty of Psychology, and the Faculty of Public Health,” he said.

The discussion between UNAIR and IJN was open and productive, focusing on the preparation of a revised cooperation framework to guide collaboration over the next five years. Both institutions agreed to reinforce a partnership that extends beyond academic exchange to produce measurable improvements in healthcare delivery.

In addition to strengthening existing initiatives, UNAIR proposed expanding collaboration into several priority areas. These include clinical observation and patient services to raise the standard of cardiac care, joint cardiovascular research, academic exchanges for staff and students through IJN University College, and specialized nursing training programs emphasizing critical care, operating room practices, and cardiovascular expertise.

Concluding the meeting, Prof. Madyan expressed optimism that UNAIR, IJN Hospital, and IJN University College would cultivate a long-term partnership integrating education, research, and healthcare services. He noted that such collaboration is expected to advance medical science while contributing to better quality of life for communities in Indonesia and Malaysia alike.

Research talk on nurses mobility

Global healthcare workforce mobility is no longer a distant issue—it is happening now. Research Center in Advancing Community Healthcare (REACH) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) on Friday (Feb. 13, 2026), held a discussion that underscored REACH’s commitment as a research hub actively fostering scholarly dialogue on global health issues and international health workforce policy.

The discussion invited participants to look beyond the statistics surrounding the migration of Indonesian nurses to Germany, framing it not merely as a numerical trend but as a lived experience shaped by both significant opportunities and complex challenges.Germany is currently experiencing a high demand for nurses, leading to global recruitment efforts, including partnerships with Indonesia. Through coordination with BP2MI, Indonesian nurses are deployed under an official government-to-government (G-to-G) scheme. 

However, entering the German labor market remains complex. One of the most challenging yet crucial requirements is achieving B2-level German language proficiency. Nurses must pass the examination to obtain certification before practicing professionally.

The session also explored structural disparities in nurse capacity between Indonesia and Germany, illustrating the push and pull factors that drive migration. Prof. Alexander Loch introduced the “migration circle” framework, covering pre-departure preparation, recruitment processes, and post-placement phases including reintegration. Findings from his recent survey reveal that many Indonesian nurses in Germany report positive job satisfaction and improved financial conditions. 

Findings from his recent survey show that many Indonesian nurses in Germany report positive work satisfaction and improved financial conditions. Supportive work environments and strong diaspora networks contribute to smoother adaptation. However, language barriers, cultural differences, limited promotion opportunities, and occasional experiences of discrimination remain challenges. The researcher observed that Indonesian nurses in Germany are increasingly forming alliances and networks to help ease adaptation

In closing, he emphasized that migration should not only be viewed through the lens of “brain drain,” but also as part of a dynamic global exchange. With structured preparation, strong language skills, and institutional support, international nursing mobility can create sustainable benefits for both origin and destination countries.

Alongside that, he also encouraged participants to explore scholarship and study opportunities through www.daad.de, noting that Germany offers both traditional research universities and universities of applied sciences.