UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), in collaboration with the European Union, has officially launched Indonesia’s first European Union (EU) Centre. The establishment was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, S.E., M.T., Ak., and EU Ambassador to Indonesia, H.E. Denis Chaibi, at the ASEEC Tower, 12th floor, UNAIR Dharmawangsa-B Campus, on Thursday, November 21, 2024. The MoU outlines a framework to advance academic and non-academic collaborations.
Prof. Nasih expressed his pride in hosting the EU Centre, especially during UNAIR’s 70th-anniversary celebrations. “This November, as we commemorate our 70th Anniversary, UNAIR is honored to host the first EU Centre in Indonesia,” he said in his opening speech.
The inauguration included seminars led by experts on EU-UNAIR collaboration, featuring discussions on joint research opportunities via EURAXESS and Erasmus+ scholarship programs. The event also showcased cultural performances celebrating the rich traditions of both Indonesia and Europe.
A hub for academic collaboration
The EU Centre at UNAIR is envisioned as a hub for academic cooperation and a resource to deepen understanding of the European Union’s institutions, policies, and values. Prof. Nasih emphasized that the Centre will serve students, academics, and the public by providing access to publications, materials, and information on cultural and academic exchange programs.
“This Centre aligns with UNAIR’s vision to enhance global engagement by providing the best resources for our students to thrive in the era of globalization. It also creates opportunities for new academic collaborations. Currently, UNAIR has 57 active partnerships with 45 educational institutions across 20 EU member states. Through the EU Centre, we aim to strengthen these ties and foster further collaboration with the EU, its member states, and universities across Europe,” Prof. Nasih explained.
The EU Centre plans to host regular programs, including lectures, seminars, workshops, cultural festivals, and competitions, with the goal of strengthening ties between Indonesia and the European Union while promoting cross-cultural understanding.
H.E. Denis Chaibi highlighted the shared commitment of Indonesia and the EU to advancing peace and sustainable development amid diversity. “The EU Centre will empower Indonesian youth and the academic community by providing vital information on student exchange programs, scholarships, internships, and collaborative research,” he stated.
Author: Febriana Putri Nur Aziizah
Editor : Khefti Al Mawalia
