Wahyu Dwi Anggoro
IDXChannel - Indonesia is committed to strengthening cooperation in higher education and research sectors with other developing countries
In an effort to achieve that goal, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with Universitas Padjajaran to organise the Ambassadors' Afternoon Tea in Bandung on 8 January.
The event was attended by eleven Ambassadors and Charge D'Affaires from friendly countries in Southeast Asia, North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Led by Universitas Padjajaran's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Arief Kartasasmita, the discussion focused on exploring new opportunities for cooperation.
Ambassador Dindin Wahyudin, Expert Staff for Economic Diplomacy for the Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation based on the Bandung Spirit and South-South cooperation. The meeting is expected to open possibilities for workable partnerships in higher education and research between Asia and Africa as two dynamic regions.
Ambassadors also shared their perspectives based on the interests of their respective countries. The Mozambican Ambassador highlighted the growing interest of African students in information technology. Tunisia expressed interest in pharmaceutical scholarships, Nigeria focused on agricultural partnerships, and Tanzania and Kenya showed interest in marine science and geological engineering. The Education Attachee from Malaysia hoped for an expansion of collaboration in joint postgraduate degree programs with universities in Malaysia.
"The Ministry stands ready to facilitate and enhance collaboration in higher education and research between Indonesian universities and friendly nations." the Ministry of Foreign Affaris said in a media release.
Moving forward, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Universitas Padjajaran are committed to organising follow-up activities to build on the collaborative momentum generated during this session. (WHY)
