FK-KMK UGM. In a bid to strengthen bilateral cooperation, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Gadjah Mada University (FK-KMK UGM), Prof. Dr. Yodi Mahendradhata, M.Sc., Ph.D., FRSPH, welcomed a visit from Prof. A. Min Tjoa from the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) at the Dean’s office of FK-KMK UGM on Wednesday (8/5). This collaboration was initiated back in 2019 through the ASEAN European Academic University Network (ASEA-UNINET) Coordination Meeting. UGM played host to more than 80 member universities from 18 countries, including Austria, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
“In Europe, for instance, animal and human studies are still limited and less feasible, but here (in Indonesia) it’s possible,” expressed Prof. Tjoa.
The meeting aimed at discussing ongoing research collaboration between TU Wien and FK-KMK UGM. Additionally, Prof. Tjoa expressed interest in expanding cooperation with other ASEAN countries, particularly Timor Leste.
“Just yesterday (7/5), UGM signed a cooperation agreement in the field of education with the Government of Timor Leste (Instituto Nacional De Saúde Publica De Timor Leste). We facilitate studies focusing on Public Health, Tropical Medicine Science, especially in the field of parasitology, and several others,” clarified Prof. Yodi.
Prof. Yudi emphasized that FK-KMK UGM could serve as a bridge to the Government of Timor Leste as part of the ASEA-UNINET outreach, including expanding the agenda for collaborative sustainable research.
Alumni of FK-KMK UGM, including graduates from Austria, also attended the meeting.
“Beyond research collaboration, we must realize thematic symposium agendas and collaborate with Austria (TU Wien) in the upcoming anniversary celebration,” added Prof. Yudi.
Moreover, the meeting extended to Prof. Tjoa’s visit to the Health Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) Sleman and the Biobank UGM at the Radioputro Building of FK-KMK UGM.
Prof. Tjoa was impressed by both units, considering their track records as potential areas for future sustainable research collaboration. This move underscores a commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). (Isroq Adi Subakti/Reporter)
