Mataram, June 3, 2025 — The University of Mataram (Unram) welcomed a delegation from Shangrao Normal University, China, as part of the ongoing student exchange and academic collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation, led by Mr. Zhou Peng, Director of the International Office at Shangrao Normal University, brought nine student representatives to participate in a series of academic and cultural activities in Mataram.
The welcoming ceremony was officially opened by Prof. Akmaluddin, Vice Rector for Planning, Collaboration, and Information Systems, who expressed his appreciation for the continued collaboration and emphasized the importance of international exchange in promoting global understanding and academic excellence. In his remarks, Mr. Zhou Peng expressed his sincere gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed Shangrao Normal University’s commitment to strengthening the partnership.
Also present at the event were Prof. Dahlanuddin, Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA) and moderator of the session; Dr. Boniesta, Head of the Language Center; Irpan Siswadi, Head of the Bureau of Academic and Collaboration Affairs; and Ms. Yu Chun Ying, staff member of the International Office at Shangrao Normal University.
The students from Shangrao will engage in a diverse program that includes Bahasa Indonesia language classes, a visit to the Faculty of Food Technology and Agroindustry to learn how to prepare and cook traditional tempeh, a laboratory tour at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and cultural visits to Desa Sade, the Islamic Center Mosque, and other local heritage sites. These activities are designed to offer both academic enrichment and cultural immersion. The series of visit activities will take place starting today until Saturday, June 7, 2025.
This visit is a continuation of the strong relationship established through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Unram and Shangrao Normal University in June 2023. Since the signing, the collaboration has expanded to include the establishment of a Mandarin Language Center, Mandarin language courses, and active student exchanges.
Discussions during the visit also included plans to launch a Double Degree Program, starting with two study programs in the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP). Shangrao Normal University will initiate the preparation of the required documentation to obtain the necessary approvals for the program.
Additionally, both institutions are exploring the implementation of the International Collaborative Teaching Program (ICTP), which is expected to commence in September 2025. This initiative will be conducted online and involve several academic departments at Unram.
As a gesture of support, Shangrao Normal University has committed to offering full tuition waivers for Unram students participating in future exchange programs, and has pledged to provide comprehensive academic and cultural support to ensure a valuable experience for all participants.
This partnership reflects the shared vision of Unram and Shangrao Normal University to promote academic cooperation, internationalization, and intercultural understanding.
