Yogyakarta, July 24, 2025 – The Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a workshop to discuss potential collaboration with the University of Sydney on July 23, 2025. This strategic meeting aimed to formulate collaborative steps in the academic, research, and community service sectors to improve the quality of international standard pharmaceutical education and research.
The event was attended by the leadership of the Faculty of Pharmacy UGM, including the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Dr. apt. Nanang Munif Yasin, M.Pharm. and the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni, Prof. Dr.rer.nat. apt. Nanang Fakhrudin, M.Si., along with the heads of study programs. From the University of Sydney, Prof. Bandana Saini was present to represent the institution and explore this partnership opportunity.
The discussion focused on the potential for an international student mobility program (IUP). Both parties see great potential for a student exchange program focusing on joint research activities and community pharmacy practice. As an initial step, an exchange of about five students from each university was proposed.
“This collaboration is a bridge to build a joint innovation ecosystem. By uniting UGM’s research excellence and the University of Sydney’s global reputation, we aspire to produce pharmaceutical solutions that have a direct impact on public health, both in Indonesia and globally,” said Prof. Nanang Fakhrudin.
Although there are challenges in curriculum adjustment for course activities and administrative requirements for clinical practice, both institutions are committed to starting this process by establishing a strong legal foundation in the form of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).
This collaborative initiative indirectly supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By improving the quality of research and pharmaceutical health services, this collaboration directly contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). The designed student exchange and academic development programs will strengthen SDG 4 (Quality Education) by creating globally competent human resources. Furthermore, this strategic partnership between educational institutions from Indonesia and Australia is a tangible manifestation of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), which underscores the importance of cross-country collaboration to address common challenges and promote sustainable development.
