Australia – Nusa Cendana University (Undana) carried out an international working visit to James Cook University (JCU), Australia, from October 23-28, 2024. The visit aimed to strengthen international collaboration, particularly in initiating small-scale joint research projects between the two institutions.
During the visit, the Undana delegation engaged in a series of strategic meetings, starting with a tour of JCU’s campus and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The visit was accompanied by Abbha from the JCU International Office and Marina, a JCU Student Ambassador.
In a meeting with the teaching staff of JCU’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, several key agendas were discussed, including a presentation by Undana’s Rector on veterinary science and animal husbandry. The JCU faculty members in attendance included Prof. Fustelle Venter, Prof. Bruce Gummon, Dr. Saranika Talukder, Prof. Jim Taylor, and Dr. Subir Sarker.
The delegation also held a meeting with representatives from the Indonesian Student Association in Australia (PPIA JCU), attended by Adityo Setiawan. Additionally, the Undana team met with the staff of RIEL (Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods) to discuss preparations for the 2025 international conference and a doctoral scholarship program.
In a separate agenda, the delegation discussed the Talau Loes Watershed Management Project with Prof. Jeremy Russell-Smith, Dr. Penny Wurm, and Dr. Michael Riwu Kaho. The discussion involved coordination with the Ministry of Forestry, the Indonesian Embassy in Australia, and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The visit concluded with a meeting with representatives of the Vice Chancellor to discuss plans for an Indonesian politics conference at CDU and preparations for a meeting with the Deputy Vice Chancellor.
Through this visit, Undana hopes to strengthen international relations and enhance the quality of education through various collaborative programs planned with JCU.