On Thursday, November 1, 2024, the Vocational School of Gadjah Mada University (UGM) Yogyakarta, Indonesia, made an official visit to the East Asia Management University (EAMU) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to discuss the follow-up of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The meeting was attended by a delegation from EAMU, including Prof. James Chua, the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Kaing Sopheap, the Director of Academic Affairs, Mr. Richard, a lecturer, and Mr. Soruan from the International Communication Affair, along with other management and staff members. The UGM delegation was represented by Dr. Faiz Zamzami and Dr. Kun Haribowo, lecturers from the Department of Economics and Business at the Vocational School.
The discussion took place in the EAMU leadership meeting room, focusing on developing deeper cooperation in various fields. Key points discussed included plans for Joint Research, Joint Lectures, and student exchange programs that would encompass Short Courses and Summer Courses. Prof. James Chua expressed his hope that this collaboration would not only strengthen academic ties between the two institutions but also benefit students and enhance research development through joint lectures and student exchanges.
Meanwhile, the UGM Vocational School delegation added that this collaboration would open new opportunities for academic development cooperation between Indonesia and Cambodia. This visit marks an important step in strengthening higher education networks in the region and signifies the beginning of various collaborative initiatives expected to be implemented in the near future.
Prof. James Chua and the leadership team of East Asia Management University (EAMU) expressed interest in short-term faculty and student exchange collaborations. With a strong spirit of cooperation, both institutions hope to soon formulate a Cooperation Agreement (PKS) that will affirm their commitment to implementing the agreed-upon programs.
International cooperation between universities is highly relevant in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at creating quality education. By developing inclusive and quality educational programs, both institutions are committed to enhancing access to higher education in the Southeast Asian region. Furthermore, initiatives such as Joint Research and student exchanges are expected to contribute to the SDG goals in the area of partnerships by building strong collaborative networks among educational institutions.
The collaboration is anticipated to foster a rich academic environment that encourages innovation and knowledge sharing. Both UGM and EAMU are dedicated to creating a platform where students can gain international exposure and experience, which is crucial in today’s globalized world. This partnership is not only about academic exchange but also about cultural understanding and mutual respect between the two nations.
As the discussions progressed, both parties recognized the importance of aligning their educational programs with industry needs, which is a key aspect of industrial diversification. By integrating practical skills and knowledge into their curricula, they aim to prepare students for the challenges of the modern workforce. This approach is essential in ensuring that graduates are equipped with the competencies required in various sectors, thus contributing to economic growth and development in both countries.
In conclusion, the collaboration between UGM and EAMU represents a significant step towards achieving the SDGs, particularly in the realms of education, industrial diversification, and global partnerships. The commitment shown by both institutions to work together will undoubtedly lead to fruitful outcomes for students, faculty, and the broader community. As they move forward, the focus will remain on creating sustainable educational practices that benefit not only their respective institutions but also the region as a whole.