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UNAIR NEWS – ������ (UNAIR) commitment to strengthen the role of higher education as a driving force for community development receives international attention again. By hosting World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) Summit 2026 in Bali, Saturday (June 21, 2026), UNAIR leads consolidation of the world university  network to encourage cross-border collaboration in answering global challenges and supporting achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As WUACD President and Rector of UNAIR, Prof Dr Muhammad Madyan SE MSi MFin opened WUACD Summit 2026 which was attended by university leaders, scientists, and stakeholders from various countries. Guests of honor in attendance include Founder of Korea-ASEAN Joint Symposium 2026 Emeritus Prof Dr Hunsa Punnapayak dari Chulalongkorn University Thailand, Coordinator General COMSTECH Prof Dr M Iqbal Choudhary HI SI T, OIC Assistant Secretary General for Science and Technology, HE Mr Aftab Ahmad Khokher. On this occasion, Prof. Madyan emphasized, “Currently, universities do not only produce knowledge through education and research. Universities must also be able to present real impact for society through collaboration, innovation, and direct engagement with the community.”

Expanding global network for community development

Furthermore, Prof. Madyan expressed that various activities initiated by WUACD are clear proof that universities can work together beyond national borders. This cooperation aims to present solutions to various development challenges. “We are committed to connecting universities, experts, and strategic partners in encouraging sustainable community development. This spirit of collaboration will produce benefits that the community can feel directly,” Prof. Madyan said.

Opening momentum of WUACD Summit 2026 wasalso marked by the joining of three new members. The newly joined universities are Bayero University from Nigeria, Eastern Visayas State University, and Mindanao State University from The Philippines. According to Prof. Madyan, the presence of these new members shows that WUACD continues to grow as an international university network that is getting more inclusive and diverse. In addition, inauguration of OIC-COMSTECH and WUACD Joint Secretariat becomes an important milestone in strengthening synergy across various sectors, namely science, technology, health, and community development.

Closing the remarks, Prof. Madyan stated belief that discussion and knowledge exchange during the WUACD Summit will produce various new collaborations with real impact. “I believe this forum will give birth to ideas, partnerships, and meaningful contributions to global community development,” Prof. Madyan concluded. Through UNAIR leadership in WUACD, the university continues to strengthen its role as a connector of the world university network. Prof. Madyan hopes WUACD presents science-based solutions to support inclusive and sustainable development.

WUACD collaboration commitment for global synergy

Meanwhile, Chairperson of WUACD Prof. M Miftahussurur dr MKes SpPD-KGEH PhD expressed appreciation to all experts, delegates, and international partners who contribute to strengthening the WUACD network. According to Miftahussurur, the success of an organization in expanding global collaboration is inseparable from the shared commitment of various parties to present impactful community service. “We appreciate all experts and partners who support WUACD journey. I believe this shared commitment will strengthen sustainable community development while supporting achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Prof. Miftah said.

Prof. Miftahussurur added that this year becomes an important momentum for WUACD with inauguration of OIC-COMSTECH and WUACD Joint Secretariat. This secretariat will be able to strengthen synergy among universities, research institutions, and international partners in science, technology, health, and community development. In addition, the joining of three new members proves the expanding reach of WUACD in building global collaboration. This collaboration will produce sustainable innovation and community empowerment.

Author: Ragil Kukuh Imanto