Banda Aceh, September 22, 2025 – Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) has once again reaffirmed its strategic commitment to expanding international academic collaboration by sending off 30 students to participate in the International Student Mobility Program in Malaysia. The program will take place from September 23 to October 5, 2025, in partnership with three leading universities: Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
The participating students come from three different faculties. The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) contributes the largest number with 24 students, followed by the Faculty of Agriculture with 4 students, and the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) with 2 students. This interdisciplinary composition is expected to strengthen academic collaboration while enriching cross-disciplinary learning experiences.
During the send-off ceremony held solemnly in Banda Aceh, USK Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Marwan expressed his appreciation to all selected students. He emphasized that participation in an international mobility program is not merely an academic opportunity, but also a tangible step toward realizing the university’s vision of becoming a World-Class University.
“This program serves as a bridge for students to experience the global academic landscape, interact with researchers and lecturers from partner universities, and appreciate the value of cultural diversity. I hope this experience will become a valuable foundation for generating innovative ideas that benefit society,” said Prof. Marwan.
The event was also attended by the Director of the Directorate of Education and Learning (DPP) USK, Prof. Dr. Ir. Nasaruddin, S.T., M.Eng., as well as Prof. Dr. Ir. Muhammad Syukri, S.Si, M.T., IPM., ASEAN.Eng. Heads of departments and program chairs from related faculties were also present, showing their full support and encouragement to the participating students. Their presence reaffirmed USK’s strong commitment to enhancing student capacity through international exposure.
Throughout nearly two weeks in Malaysia, USK students and accompanying lecturers will engage in a series of intensive academic activities, including interdisciplinary discussions, guest lectures, and research presentations in the fields of biodiversity, environment, science, and technology. They will also attend a special lecture on Blue Carbon and coastal ecosystem sustainability—an increasingly relevant global issue in the era of climate change.
Beyond academics, the program also carries a mission of cultural diplomacy. USK students will present a cultural performance showcasing the rich arts, traditions, and local wisdom of Aceh and Indonesia. This presentation aims to strengthen cross-cultural friendship while promoting Indonesia’s cultural identity on the international stage.
Furthermore, participants will undertake academic visits to various partner university facilities, including laboratories, research centers, libraries, and scientific sites such as the Insect Systematics Center, Zoology Museum, and Bangi Botanical Garden. Through these visits, students will gain firsthand insight into how international research ecosystems operate and find inspiration for scientific development back at USK.
Dean of FMIPA USK, Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin, S.Si, M.Tech, described the program as a key strategy to enhance USK’s human resource capacity, particularly among students.
“Through this activity, students can learn directly from partner universities, broaden their scientific perspectives, and serve as cultural ambassadors who carry the good name of USK and Indonesia at the international level,” said Prof. Taufik. He added that such global exposure also helps build students’ confidence in facing global challenges and prepares them to become future leaders.
In addition to providing direct benefits for students, the program also marks an important milestone in strengthening institutional collaboration. FMIPA USK, together with UM, UTM, and UKM, plans to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) covering joint research, academic development, and student and faculty exchanges. The MoA is expected to serve as a foundation for long-term and sustainable partnerships.
Through this initiative, Universitas Syiah Kuala continues to reaffirm its position as an institution not only focused on improving the quality of national education but also actively engaging in global collaboration. Moving forward, USK aims to send more students to participate in international mobility programs so that more young generations from Aceh and Indonesia are well-prepared to compete on the world stage.
This program is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Enhancing global learning access and intercultural academic experiences.
- SDG 13 – Climate Action: Promoting awareness on Blue Carbon and coastal ecosystem sustainability.
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening international collaboration through academic and research cooperation.
