UNAIR NEWS – In realizing the commitment as a world-class university, Universitas Airlangga continuously conducts collaboration with multiple partners. Therefore, UNAIR held a strategic meeting with the ASEAN University Network (AUN) on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.
UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih warmly welcomed the AUN Executive Director Dr. Choltis Dhiratiti and co. The meeting was held at the Plenary Meeting Hall Balairua, Management Building, MERR-C Campus.
In his speech, Prof. Nasih stated that UNAIR accepted and agreed to pursue the partnership with AUN. The partnership program is an attempt to continually enhance quality and fulfill the three pillars of higher education, which include education, research, and community service.
“We continue to expand our connections with international partners to enhance quality in accordance with the Three Pillars of Higher Education,” he said.
Collaboration development
Dr. Choltis appreciates UNAIR’s open attitude toward collaboration with AUN. He hopes to develop collaboration in academics and skills, which are currently needed.
“Being a world-class university, we see the potential of UNAIR to become an agent of change. Therefore, we would like to collaborate in maximizing students’ potential and developing their academics and skills,” he said.
Improving Language Proficiency
The meeting also discussed the importance of language proficiency to communicate within the globalization era. Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih MSi explained that broader opportunities will be available if students have foreign language proficiency. Furthermore, she emphasized that international languages like English and Mandarin Chinese are particularly important.
“Proficiency in foreign languages is crucial in the era of globalization. This ability facilitates economic opportunities, advances in knowledge, and diplomatic relations with other countries, serving as a gateway to various opportunities,” she said.
Currently, one of the ongoing collaboration programs is the ASEAN University Network Student Exchange Program. Students who apply and pass will receive scholarships and accommodation expenses while studying at universities that are part of the AUN network.
Author: Muhammad Rizal Abdul Aziz
Editor: Nuri Hermawan
