Delegation of Universitas Pattimura (Unpatti) visited Kagoshima University in Japan from 19 to 24 June 2024, for the purpose of signing Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) which would be used as a foundation for further academic cooperation between both Institutions for 5 years period in 2024 to 2029. Unpatti delegation was led by Rector Prof. Dr. Fredy Leiwakabessy, M.Pd. Other Members of delegation are Prof. August E. Pattiselano Dean of Agriculture Faculty, Dr. Wardis Girsang Lecturer at Postgraduate Program, Dr. Stevanus Huliselan Secretary of Research Department, Jonny Latuny Head of International Office and Theophanny Rampisela Secretary of International Office.
On 21st of June 2024, The Unpatti delegation had official meeting with Prof. Akira Sano, MD, PhD the President of Kagoshima University, Prof. Masashi Yamamoto (Director of International Center for Island Studies) and Sota Yamamoto (Senior Staff of Intenational Center for Island Studies). At the of the meeting an MoA document was signed by Rector of Universitas Pattimura and President of Kagoshima University. The MoA covers 5 years period which is from 2024 – 2029.
The visit was also aimed to explore broader academic cooperation between Unpatti and Kagoshima University. In order to broaden the future academic cooperation. As the result of discussion during the meeting several points have been highlighted, these are:
- Development of joint research programs in the fields of agriculture and marine science. Both universities agreed to explore research projects that can have a positive impact on society, especially those related to the sustainability of natural resources and environmentally friendly technologies.
- Lecturer and researcher exchange programs to strengthen the academic capacity of both universities. The discussion emphasized the importance of academic mobility to improve the quality of education and research at both institutions.
- Collaboration in international journal publications. It is hoped that this collaboration will produce quality and internationally recognized publications, which in turn will enhance the reputation of both universities.
Both Representatives of International Office of Universitas Pattimura and Kagoshima University had meet to discuss possible cooperation. The meeting was attended counterparts from International Office of Kagoshima University, Naruse Masaya, Manager of International Cooperation Division and Horai Ayumi from International Student Affairs.
In the meeting, various opportunities for student exchange between the two universities were discussed. Some of the points discussed include:
- Student exchange schemes for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Both parties agreed to develop exchange programs that allow students from both universities to study and gain experience abroad.
- Support for facilities and accommodation for students participating in exchange programs. This discussion emphasized the importance of providing adequate facilities to ensure the comfort and safety of students participating in exchange programs.
- Development of orientation programs and cultural training for foreign students. Both universities are committed to helping foreign students adapt to the new environment and understand the local culture.
The Delegation of Pattimura University delegation had a meeting with Prof. Kei Kawai from the International Center for Island Studies. The meeting is focused on discussing ongoing research collaborations and future research plans. Some of the research projects discussed which included:
- Research on the sustainability of natural resources in the archipelago. Both universities agreed to explore research projects that could have a positive impact on communities in the archipelago.
- Collaboration in the development of environmentally friendly agricultural and marine technologies. This discussion emphasized the importance of developing technologies that can increase agricultural and marine productivity without damaging the environment.
- Exchange of data and publication of joint research results. It is hoped that this collaboration will produce quality and internationally recognized publications, which in turn will improve the reputation of both universities.