University of Indonesia and Muhammadiyah University of Sorong Strengthen Collaboration to Advance Research and Innovation in Eastern Indonesia

Depok, The Gulf Observer: The University of Indonesia (UI) and Muhammadiyah University of Sorong, Southwest Papua, have agreed to strengthen cooperation in research and community service, particularly in eastern Indonesia, a region with strong potential for human resource development and local innovation.

Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Indonesia (FTUI), Kemas Ridwan Kurniawan, stated that the collaboration demonstrates UI’s commitment to expanding the role of higher education in enhancing academic capacity across the nation.

“This collaboration not only strengthens inter-university relations but also fosters a spirit of cooperation to produce research and innovation that benefit society, particularly in eastern Indonesia,” Kurniawan said in a statement on Saturday.

The two universities will collaborate in several strategic areas, including lecturer and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, human resource development programs, and joint seminars and training. FTUI will play an active role in facilitating the implementation of the partnership.

Several potential joint programs are being explored, such as engineering research focused on coastal environmental issues in West Papua, the development of appropriate technologies, and community service programs driven by technological innovation.

Kurniawan emphasized that the collaboration aligns with UI’s vision to build an inclusive and sustainable higher education ecosystem. “We want to ensure that UI’s academic excellence can be shared widely. Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen education and research capacity in the eastern region and open opportunities for broader interregional collaboration,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chancellor of Muhammadiyah University of Sorong, Muhammad Ali, expressed appreciation for UI’s initiative in establishing the strategic partnership, highlighting the importance of synergy among universities to promote equitable education that supports national progress.

The partnership will span five years and will be followed by technical cooperation agreements between faculties and relevant work units.

Through this initiative, UI reaffirms its role as a national university committed to fostering cross-regional collaboration and advancing education, research, and community service with a broad and sustainable impact across Indonesia