Every university in the world faces a daunting challenge in formulating astute internationalization strategies in order to provide the best quality education, research methodologies, and community service platforms for the students by collaborating with other universities regionally or internationally. Therefore, collaboration has become the bread and butter for universities. On February 17, 2025, MILA University, Malaysia leaders visited University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI) to discuss collaboration prospects with UAI.
Building Blocks
The rector of UAI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Asep Saefuddin, M.Sc., accompanied by the Head of Office of International Affairs and Partnership, Dr. Mohamad Ghozali Moenawar, Lc., M.M. and Head of International Affairs, Muchammad Nasucha, S.S., M.Si. received the delegations from MILA University, Vice President of Marketing, Eddy Choo Boon Han, Director of International Sales, Dr. Sean Calvin Yong and they were led by the CEO of Mila Education Company, Prof. Dr. Cao Fei. The exploration of collaboration was held in the Rector of UAI’s room on the 2nd floor of UAI.
The discussion touched on important topics such as the possibilities of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), as MILA University was established a year ago, and they wanted to collaborate with excellent universities in Asia, one of which is UAI. Furthermore, Prof. Cao offered a double degree program, joint lecture and research, and exchange students for the Faculty of Economy and Business, Department of Biology and Communication of UAI. In order to realize this, MILA University will communicate with UAI further and visit UAI in the near future. After the discussion was over, Prof. Cao awarded an exchange gift session between UAI and MILA University.
Conclusion
After the exchanging of gifts, both UAI and MILA University officials take a group photo to commemorate the warm visit. The intent for MILA University as a young university to collaborate with UAI, one of the accredited “Excellent” universities in Jakarta, is certainly a welcomed opportunity. Respective parties believe the collaboration will further enhance the capacities of students in Southeast Asia and help them compete in a global workforce and find their own place in it. Aamiin (BR)