This initial step prioritizes cultural and educational exchanges between the two institutions.
This collaboration was facilitated by the Sakuranesia Society, an organization actively fostering cooperation and strong relations between Indonesia and Japan in various fields, particularly education and culture.
"This cooperation is specifically designed to introduce the richness of Indonesian culture to Japanese students, encompassing art, traditions, and local wisdom," stated Mazakasu Shimada, Chancellor of Bunkyo Gakuin University, in Jember, East Java, on Wednesday.
Bunkyo Gakuin University has a strong policy encouraging its students to visit and study abroad, with a specific focus on Southeast Asia—Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia—since 2021.
"Our visit to Unej aims to explore concrete cooperation so that our students have a valuable opportunity to learn Indonesian culture firsthand here," he stated.
Meanwhile, Unej's Vice Chancellor for Planning, Cooperation, and Information Systems, Professor Bambang Kuswandi, expressed hope that this initiative aligns with both universities' mission to promote friendship and positive development between Indonesia and Japan through cross-cultural exchanges.
"This cooperation will not only enrich the learning experience of our students through interaction with Japanese culture but also provide an opportunity for Japanese students to explore the richness of Indonesian culture," he affirmed.
He is optimistic that the student exchange will strengthen cross-cultural understanding and contribute to closer relations between Indonesia and Japan.
The collaboration is also expected to support Indonesia's participation in the expo to be held in Osaka from June to October 2025.
According to Sakuranesia Society founder Tomomi Ijuin, the Indonesian pavilion at the expo will showcase various national potentials, including sustainable development, the digital economy, culture and creative industries, education, as well as culinary and tourism assets.
"The partnership with Bunkyo Gakuin University is expected to enhance the representation of the Indonesian education sector on the international stage," he stated.
The cooperation between Unej and Bunkyo Gakuin University is anticipated to create new opportunities for students and staff from both universities to grow through academic and cultural exchanges.
"This initiative serves as a positive example of how international collaboration can enrich education and strengthen ties between nations," he highlighted.
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Translator: Zumrotun S, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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