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UNAIR NEWS – (UNAIR) continues to reinforce its commitment to becoming a world-class university, as seen through its recent staff exchange program titled “Development for Understanding and Experience Abroad.” This program was held at Universiti Malaya from Tuesday, October 22, 2024, to Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

Nine UNAIR representatives participated in the exchange program, including Khoiriningtyas Ayu P from the Faculty of Public Health (FKM); Nimas Diah Putri A D N from the Faculty of Psychology (FPsi); Vicha Destiar P from the Faculty of Humanities (FIB); and Nanik Ismi O from the Faculty of Vocational Studies (FV).

Other delegates included Sasmitha Anggraeni from Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE); Yesika Ayu W from the Board of Planning and Development (BPP); Metta Karuniawati from the Center for Communications and Public Information (PKIP); Dwi Rahayu W from the Center for Language and Multicultural Studies (PUSBA MULYA); and Sarah Khairunnisa from the Institute for Innovation, Journal Development, Publishing, and Intellectual Property (LIPJPHKI).

Pursuing internationalization efforts

Metta, representing UNAIR’s delegates, explained that the exchange program aimed to enhance staff skills in support of UNAIR’s internationalization goals. “This program is designed to realize UNAIR’s ambition of international engagement,” Metta explained.

The nine-day program was intensive, providing Metta with a closer understanding of Universiti Malaya, one of Malaysia’s top universities, and its prominent academic programs.

Throughout the exchange, the UNAIR team delved into key aspects of university internationalization, including cross-cultural communication, university branding, risk management in higher education, student mobility, leadership, and administration. The staff also explored strategies for optimizing performance by emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and consistent professional development.

Toward the end of the program, the UNAIR staff had the opportunity to visit multiple departments at Universiti Malaya. “We observed each department’s operations firsthand, interacting directly with the staff,” she added.

Empowering professional development

Metta noted that UNAIR’s exchange program holds great potential to motivate staff. “We gained new insights into best practices across Universiti Malaya’s operations, which could be adapted to improve UNAIR’s management strategies,” she shared.

A particularly notable aspect was Universiti Malaya’s comprehensive and structured approach to branding, which is reflected throughout its campus. Metta also appreciated the university’s efficient risk management team, which swiftly addresses challenges as they arise.

The program underscored the importance of similar initiatives to support UNAIR’s internationalization mission. “Achieving world-class university status requires ongoing support to help every member of the university community continue their professional growth. Each university pillar has its own essential role,” Metta concluded.

Author: Zahwa Sabiila Ilman Ramadhani

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati