BukSU expands international collaborations in Indonesia visit

Bukidnon State University (strengthened) its international ties during a collaborative visit to Indonesia on January 23-24, 2025.

Led by SMART BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, the delegation included Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela, College of Nursing (CON) Dean Dr. Ma. Algerica Cuenco, and College of Public Administration and Governance (CPAG) Dean Dr. Lalevie C. Lubos.

The visit, facilitated by BukSU’s International Affairs and Linkages Unit, highlighted academic partnerships with two prestigious Indonesian universities: Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) and Satya Wacana Christian University Linkages.

Partnership with Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY)

The visit to UMY included the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BukSU and UMY. Represented by President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol and UMY Rector Prof . Dr. Ir Gunawan Budiyanto, M.P., IPM, ASEAN Eng., the agreement aims to promote academic cooperation through faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and co-publications.

UMY is recognized globally for its academic excellence. It ranks between #1201-1400 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is placed in the 1501+ bracket in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. With Indonesia, UMY ranks 41st according to EduRank, underscoring its position as a leader in higher education.

The BukSU delegation actively participated in curriculum reviews and research dissemination during the visit. Faculty presentations included:

·      Dr. Lalevie C. Lubos: “Enhancing Autonomy: Assessing : Local Government Units’ Readiness and Capacity for Effective Decentralization in the Philippines.”

·      Dr. Ma. Algerica Cuenco: “Nursing Care Model for Millennial Nurses in the Philippines.”

·      Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela: Integrating Indigenous Knowledge into Higher Education Curriculum.”

Dr. Mirasol also delivered a comprehensive presentation about BukSU, highlighting its vision for academic innovation and global engagement.

Collaboration with Satya Wacana Christian University

In Salatiga, the delegation visited Satya Wacana Christian University, where implementation agreements were signed, formalizing plans for academic collaborations in research, extension, curriculum development, and joint academic programs. The delegation also participated in UKSW’s graduation ceremony, delivered guest lectures, and held discussions on potential research partnerships.

UKSW holds a prominent place in the region, ranked #153 in the QS Asian University Rankings 2025 for Southeast Asia. Globally, it positioned 3,293rd according to EduRank and ranks 55th in Indonesia, reflecting its commitment to academic quality and innovation.

Advancing Academic Internationalization

BukSU’s engagement with UMY and UKSW in Indonesia exemplify its commitment to advancing international collaborations. These partnerships enhance BukSU’s academic programs, foster cross-cultural learning, and align with its vision of becoming a globally recognized institution.

By connecting with highly regarded universities, BukSU continues to position itself as hub for academic excellence and innovation, benefiting students, faculty, and the wider academic community. (Joanne Vivien B. Necosia/Director, PMS)