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. 

UNAIR hosts Embassy of Sweden Jakarta

Universitas Airlangga’s Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) is strengthening its internationalization efforts by expanding global partnerships and overseeing student exchange and international research initiatives. As part of that push, UNAIR welcomed an official delegation from the Embassy of Sweden Jakarta on Friday (Feb. 13, 2026) at the Banteng Room, ASEEC Tower, Dharmawangsa-B Campus. The delegation was led by H.E.Daniel Blockert, Ambassador of Sweden to Indonesia, Timor-Leste and ASEAN, accompanied by three embassy representatives. They were received by UNAIR’s senior leadership and officials from AGE.

Vice Rector for Academic, Student and Alumni Affairs Prof. Ir. Mochammad Amin Alamsjah, MSi, PhD, opened the discussion with an overview of UNAIR and its strategic priorities. He said the meeting could pave the way for stronger research ties and institutional cooperation. “We hope this dialogue will create broader opportunities to build collaboration between Indonesian and Swedish students,” he said.

Ambassador Blockert highlighted the growing potential for partnerships between Swedish and Indonesian institutions. Interest in cooperation, he noted, has increased steadily in recent years. “In terms of education, I see strong interest from Swedish universities and institutions in finding partners here. There is broad interest in Southeast Asia, but many are specifically looking at Indonesia,” he said.

He added that Indonesian students have significant opportunities to take part in exchange programs, as many Swedish universities are actively seeking candidates from Indonesia. “They are highly valued and popular among universities. Indonesian students are known for being ambitious and for making the most of their academic opportunities,” he said.

During the session, several faculty leaders presented their flagship programs to explore potential collaboration with Swedish counterparts. The faculties represented included Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Economics and Business, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Nursing.

Responding to the presentations, Ambassador Blockert emphasized the mutual benefits of deeper engagement. He pointed out that much of Sweden’s research focuses on sustainability, environmental challenges and technological solutions, areas that require international collaboration, shared data and diverse expertise. Indonesia’s scale and complexity, he said, make it an important partner.

UNAIR attends 2025 Rector’s Conference

The 2025 Rector’s Conference at the OIC-COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad on Wednesday (Dec 3, 2025) served as a key opportunity for Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) to reinforce its strategic role within the global higher education landscape. Across discussion panels, university forums, and the COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence (CCoE) meeting, UNAIR positioned itself as a drive for solving global issues, particularly through collaborative research, technological innovation, international talent management, and community-engagement networks. The UNAIR delegation was led by Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development (RICD) Prof Dr Muhammad Miftahussurur SpPD-KGEH PhD; Executive Secretary of the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD), Prof Dr Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih MSi; and Head of UNAIR’s LPJPHKI, Prof Ferry Efendi SKep Ns MSc PhD. Their presence also marked Indonesia’s representation in global academic diplomacy.

The conference opened with a welcome address from COMSTECH HE Coordinator General Prof Dr M Iqbal Choudhary, who underscored the importance of strengthening cross-border partnerships in science and technology. The event provided a strategic venue for cultivating a global innovation ecosystem responsive to technological change, interdisciplinary research demands, and the development of highly skilled talent.

During the Introduction of International Universities session, UNAIR outlined its achievements and strategic priorities. These included research transformation, enhanced scientific publication quality, innovation downstreaming, and expanded international partnerships. Representing UNAIR, Prof Miftahussurur reaffirmed the university’s contributions to the global academic ecosystem. “UNAIR views COMSTECH as a crucial platform for widening research collaboration, academic mobility, and science-based innovation. These efforts support talent capacity-building and strengthen Indonesia’s visibility in international higher education networks,” he stated.

As Executive Secretary of WUACD, Prof Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih highlighted the organization’s progress, achievements, and potential areas for collaboration with COMSTECH. She explained that WUACD focuses on community development, social transformation, and using research to improve societal well-being. Collaboration with COMSTECH opens opportunities in several areas, including research-based community development programs, cross-border capacity-building initiatives, technology-driven community empowerment, and multidisciplinary projects that involve member universities from both networks.

Prof Puspaningsih emphasized that integrating WUACD and COMSTECH strengths can amplify the social impact of university research. The partnership would also reinforce UNAIR’s standing as a global leader in community-based education and social innovation. “This collaboration strengthens international community-development networks and ensures research delivers real benefits rather than ending solely in publications,” she said.

The international gathering also featured two key discussion sessions. The first, Character-Based Leadership and Academic Ethics Foundation, explored a Prophetic Character-Based Leadership model centered on integrity, empathy, discipline, and responsibility. These principles are considered vital for strengthening academic leadership and fostering an ethical research culture, including in cross-border talent management.

The second session, Future Universities – Society, Economy, and Industry Nexus, examined how universities must evolve amid digital transformation, innovation-driven economic shifts, and global industrial demands. The discussion addressed adaptation to the digital and AI revolutions, stronger industry partnerships, accelerated innovation commercialization, transdisciplinary learning models, and aligning research with global social and economic needs. UNAIR’s innovation ecosystem, comprised of AGE, DRI, LPJPHKI, LIHTR, PASINBIS, LPMB, and various leading research centers, was highlighted as a model that partner universities could emulate.

During the annual meeting, discussions centered on the need for a comprehensive, collaborative, and flexible system for managing global research and innovation talent. UNAIR stressed the importance of a strategic framework involving talent identification, competency development, academic mobility, and diaspora engagement to strengthen global research cooperation. This framework aligns with international trends emphasizing talent mobility, collaborative research networks, and cross-border innovation ecosystems.

UNAIR expands collaboration in Pakistan

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) continues to expand its global reach through strategic international academic partnerships. A delegation conducted official visits to the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), two of Pakistan’s leading universities. The agenda focused on expanding international research cooperation, academic exchanges, global scientific publications, and the downstreaming and commercialization of university-based innovation.

The delegation was led by UNAIR’s Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development (RICD), Prof Dr Muhammad Miftahussurur SpPD-KGEH PhD, joined by Executive Secretary of the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD), Prof Dr Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih MSi, and Head of the Center for Journal Development, Publication, and Intellectual Property Rights (LPJPHKI), Prof Ferry Efendi Skep Ns MSc PhD.

The meeting was held in the IIUI Rectorate Conference Hall on Tuesday (11/2/2025), attended by the acting president, vice presidents, and senior leadership members. IIUI expressed a strong commitment to strengthening academic collaboration among Asian universities as part of its effort to advance higher education ecosystems across the Islamic world. During the academic dialogue, UNAIR and IIUI identified multiple areas for strategic partnership. These include international joint research in STEM and the social sciences, faculty and student mobility programs, co-hosting international seminars and conferences, collaborative scientific publication platforms, and academic capacity building through global networks.

Prof Miftahussurur emphasized that the internationalization of research is essential to UNAIR’s goal of becoming a World Class University. “UNAIR is committed to broadening its regional and global footprint. This collaboration allows us to strengthen research quality, expand scientific influence, and establish long-term, sustainable academic networks,” he said.

UNAIR delegates with NUST’s research director and representatives (Photo: By courtesy)

While the visit to IIUI centered on academic cooperation, the visit to NUST focused on enhancing the downstreaming of research and transforming innovations into economic assets. The UNAIR delegation was welcomed by NUST’s Director of Research before touring two of the university’s leading units. The first was the National Science and Technology Park (NSTP), Pakistan’s largest center for innovation commercialization and research-driven startup development. The second was the School of Interdisciplinary Engineering & Sciences (SINES), a hub that integrates multidisciplinary research for industry-focused solutions.

During the visit, Prof Miftahussurur stressed the need for Indonesian universities to shift their research paradigm. “UNAIR’s research must create tangible impact, not only in academia but also economically. NUST illustrates how a university can function as an innovation center that generates applicable technologies and commercial products. This serves as a valuable lesson for UNAIR,” he asserted. NUST expressed interest in collaborating in several areas such as innovation downstreaming and commercialization, science and technology park development model, university-based startup ecosystems, joint research with shared patent potential, and transdisciplinary researcher exchange programs.

During the same visit, Prof Miftahussurur also delivered a guest lecture at NUST on Gastric Dysbiosis and H. pylori to multidisciplinary students and faculties. Meanwhile, Prof Dr Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih presented a lecture titled Introduction to Bioinformatics and Machine Learning: Role and Challenges.

UNAIR, IIUI, and NUST agreed to follow up the meetings by developing a more structured collaborative action plan. Priority areas include strengthening institutional partnerships, intensifying academic and research exchanges, expanding opportunities for internationally indexed scientific publications, accelerating research-based innovation downstreaming, and increasing the shared impact of collaborative research and innovation pipelines.

The UNAIR delegation’s visit to Pakistan underscores the university’s growing role in Indonesia’s academic diplomacy. The initiative aligns with UNAIR’s vision to enhance global contributions through innovative research, reputable scientific publications, and sustainable innovation commercialization.