KUPANG – Nusa Cendana University (Undana) welcomed a courtesy visit from the Australian Consul-General, Jo Stevens, at the International Relations Office (IRO) of Undana on Tuesday (May 19, 2026). The visit aimed to review the utilization of the Aussie Banget Corner (ABC) facility while further strengthening the strategic partnership between Australia and Undana in the fields of education and culture.
The Aussie Banget Corner (ABC) serves as an information center established through the official collaboration between the Australian Government and Undana. The facility provides comprehensive resources on Australia’s education system, culture, and scholarship opportunities, serving as a valuable reference point for students, lecturers, and academics across East Nusa Tenggara.
Reconnecting and Engaging in Dialogue with Alumni
Upon her arrival, Jo Stevens was warmly welcomed by the Head of Undana’s International Relations Office (IRO), Santri E. P. Djahimo, S.Pd., M.App.Ling., Ph.D., accompanied by the Head of Undana’s Language Center, Yosep B. Kroon, Ph.D., as well as faculty members who are alumni of various Australian universities. The meeting was conducted in a friendly and informal atmosphere, providing an opportunity for the Consulate representatives, alumni, and students to share experiences and insights.
“This visit serves as an important occasion to maintain and strengthen our longstanding relationship. Since many of those participating in this meeting are alumni of Australian universities, we had the opportunity to exchange stories about our academic experiences in Australia while also encouraging our students to seize opportunities for international study,” said Santri Djahimo.
Maria W. I. Watu Raka, S.H., M.IL., M.IR., a lecturer in International Law at the Faculty of Law, Undana, and an alumna of an Australian university, expressed her appreciation for the Consulate’s continued engagement. According to her, Jo Stevens’ visit reflects Australia’s genuine commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with its alumni communities in the regions.
Hopes for the Continuation of Scholarship Programs
This strategic partnership is expected to pave the way for more collaborative programs in the future. Maria Raka further emphasized that the continuation and expansion of scholarship opportunities provided by the Australian Government are highly anticipated by the Undana academic community, as they play a significant role in enhancing academic quality and human resource development in East Nusa Tenggara.
Through the strengthening of these relationships, Undana remains committed to serving as a bridge for students seeking access to global education opportunities while reinforcing its position as a strategic partner of the Australian Government in Eastern Indonesia.(Audc)
