University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI) continues to expand its global collaborations through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guangxi Minzu Normal University (GXMZNU), China. The ceremony took place at the UAI Rectorate Office on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, marking a significant milestone in academic cooperation between the two institutions.
Background of the Partnership
The partnership between UAI and GXMZNU began in 2023, when both universities co-hosted an online speaking competition, which became the first bridge of academic and cultural exchange between the two institutions. The positive outcomes from this initiative encouraged both sides to explore deeper opportunities for collaboration in education and research.
This partnership also reflects the growing warmth in Indonesia–China relations, which have been further strengthened under the current government. Recognizing this positive momentum, UAI affirms that higher education plays a vital role in reinforcing these bilateral ties through academic, cultural, and research collaborations.
Areas of Practical Cooperation
Representing UAI at this potential discussion were Prof. Dr. Ir. Asep Saefuddin, M.Sc. (Rector), accompanied by Dr. Drs. Zirmansyah, M.Pd. (Vice Rector I for Academic Affairs), Dr. Faisal Hendra, Lc., M.A. (Vice Rector III for Student Affairs and Alumni), Dr. Heri Herdiawanto, S.Pd., M.Si. (Dean of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences), Ir. Hidayat Yorianta Sasaerila, M.Sc., Ph.D. (Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology), and Akhmad Safik, S.E., M.H., LL.M. (Vice Dean of the Faculty of Law).
From GXMZNU, the delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Ma Ning (President of GXMZNU), accompanied by Prof. Dr. Peng Jinyun, Prof. Dr. Wang Pengfei, Prof. Yang Xiuzeng, and Assoc. Prof. Huang Shan.
The event began with opening remarks from Prof. Asep Saefuddin, who stated:
“This MoU represents not only an academic agreement but also a commitment to fostering cultural understanding and innovation between Indonesia and China.”
The session continued with remarks from the President of GXMZNU, who expressed strong enthusiasm for the partnership and introduced GXMZNU as one of China’s leading universities, recognized for its excellence in teacher education, language training, and international collaborations.
Building on the President’s remarks, the GXMZNU delegation reaffirmed its commitment to fostering long-term and meaningful cooperation with University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI) through a series of structured academic and cultural initiatives. The partnership aims to establish sustainable and practical collaborations that benefit both institutions and their surrounding communities, including:
- Lecturer and professor exchange programs
- Student exchange ranging from one week to one year
- Dual/double degree programs and transfer credit schemes
- Cultural exchange programs and joint events
- Professional training programs, which GXMZNU has successfully implemented for several years, with positive responses from partner institutions
Through these comprehensive initiatives, both UAI and GXMZNU aim to create a mutually beneficial learning ecosystem that advances academic excellence and fosters intercultural dialogue, while also contributing to the broader mission of strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and China.
Looking Ahead
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed by Prof. Dr. Ir. Asep Saefuddin, M.Sc., on behalf of University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI), and Prof. Dr. Ma Ning, on behalf of Guangxi Minzu Normal University (GXMZNU). This marked a significant step toward strengthening academic and cultural ties between the two institutions.
The event concluded with a group photo and informal exchanges, reflecting the shared enthusiasm to advance sustainable academic cooperation between the two universities. (DA)