Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta Initiate Global Network with Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi Partnership
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) has significantly advanced its international relations by formalizing a partnership with Mindanao State University (MSU) Tawi-Tawi, through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). The agreement, finalized on Saturday, February 15, in UMY’s AR Fachruddin A Conference Room, follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024.
The MoA was signed by UMY Rector Prof. Dr. Achmad Nurmandi, M.Sc., and MSU Tawi-Tawi Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali. This agreement marks a key step in solidifying the mutual commitment to enhancing educational quality and fostering scientific progress on a global scale.
The collaboration with MSU Tawi-Tawi, the only public university in the region offering an Islamic Education Faculty, presents UMY with new opportunities to broaden its global influence and pioneer innovations in both educational and Islamic studies. Idham Badruzaman, S.IP., M.A., Ph.D., Head of UMY’s Office of International Affairs, noted that the relationship between the two universities has been longstanding, aided by the efforts of UMY alumni currently serving as the Head of International Affairs at MSU Tawi-Tawi.
Idham explained that the MoA would open the door for both student and faculty exchange programs, with an emphasis on teaching activities both in-person and virtually. This exchange, he explained, would serve as a foundation for future collaborative research initiatives between UMY and MSU Tawi-Tawi. Moving forward, the partnership will focus on joint research efforts involving UMY’s Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI), Faculty of Engineering (FT), and Faculty of Law (FH).
This collaboration is poised to bolster UMY’s presence in Asia, enhancing academic mobility for both students and faculty. “The growing number of international partnerships UMY is forming is integral to reinforcing the university’s global reputation, particularly in Asia,” Idham stated. He also highlighted that the collaboration aligns with UMY’s 44th-anniversary theme, ‘Relevant to Asia,’ and will provide valuable opportunities for faculty and students to deepen their academic expertise.
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Idham concluded by expressing optimism about the long-term success of the partnership, encouraging UMY’s academic community to leverage the opportunities presented to further elevate their contributions to education and knowledge. The partnership with MSU Tawi-Tawi is seen as a significant milestone in UMY’s continued effort to build stronger international connections and expand its global impact.