JOHOR BAHRU, 22 July 2024: The partnership between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Universitas Brawijaya (UB) represents a significant step toward a stronger research and educational landscape for both institutions. During her visit, Ms. Viky Vidayanti, beyond her editorial role, brought forth an idea from her Biology department head to propose matching programs from both universities’ Biosciences departments. The purpose of these programs is to initiate student exchange programs and summer schools, particularly at the undergraduate level. This initiative aligns with UTM’s globalization efforts and promotes the concept of borderless education.

Dr. Firdaus Abdul Wahab, Assistant Dean (External and Global Engagement) at UTM’s Faculty of Science, discussed the faculty’s academic structure with UB representatives. This discussion paves the way for a future visit from UB for curriculum benchmarking in September. It will facilitate student and faculty exchange programs in teaching and learning. The collaborative efforts between the two universities are expected to lead to the development of joint research projects. Researchers from UTM’s Biosciences department, particularly those with a deep interest in Indonesia’s rich biodiversity, stand to benefit from collaborations with UB researchers. The future holds promise for joint grant proposals, fostering collaborative research activities.

Building Bridges for the Future

Professor Fahrul Huyop hosted a luncheon that gathered coordinators of the academic program within the Biosciences department and the head of the research group. The purpose was to discuss improving the curriculum for student exchange and to explore potential research collaborations in the near future.