As part of the commitment to strengthening international education networks, University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI) welcomed a delegation from Tarim University and The Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, on Thursday, 21 August 2025. The visit marked an important milestone in initiating strategic collaboration in academic development, joint research, and cross-cultural exchange between the two institutions.
The meeting was opened by Dr. Mohamad Ghozali Moenawar, Head of UAI’s Office of International Affairs and Partnerships, who emphasized the mutual benefits of academic cooperation. UAI’s Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Dr. Zirmansyah, warmly welcomed the initiative, highlighting UAI’s ongoing commitment to education, social development, and Islamic values.
Representing the Xinjiang Government, Vice Chairman Xue Bin expressed appreciation for UAI’s hospitality and reaffirmed the importance of the long-standing strategic ties between Indonesia and China. He encouraged broader cooperation in language education, research, and institutional partnerships.
Wang Zhongwei, Vice Dean of the College of Humanities at Tarim University, introduced the university’s academic profile and its key role in promoting Mandarin language education and intercultural programs in Xinjiang.
As the highlight of the visit, UAI and Tarim University signed a Strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), represented by Dr. Zirmansyah and Wang Zhongwei. The agreement includes cooperation in student and faculty exchange, joint research, curriculum development, and cultural programs. Through this MoU, UAI and Tarim University agreed to strengthen cooperation in several areas, including: Joint academic programs and student/faculty exchange, Collaborative research in various strategic fields, Knowledge sharing and cross-cultural understanding, International programs in languages, communication, and technology. This collaboration is expected not only to enrich academic excellence but also to serve as a bridge for people-to-people relations between Indonesia and China through education and research.
After signing the MoU, UAI and Tarim University, held a discussion session to explore concrete steps for collaboration. This session was also joined by the Dean of the Faculty of Language and Culture, along with the Heads of the Arabic, English, and Mandarin Study Programs. This partnership marks an important step for Universitas Al-Azhar Indonesia and Tarim University in advancing collaboration through education, research, and cultural exchange. More than just an MoU, it reflects a shared commitment to preparing future generations who are globally minded, culturally aware, and ready to strengthen ties between Indonesia and China. (Nanda Putri)