Semarang (26/09) – The ongoing collaboration between the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Universitas Diponegoro (Undip) and the Australian Embassy continues to strengthen academic and cultural relations between the two parties. This partnership is expected to create broader opportunities for FISIP Undip students to deepen their understanding of Australia, particularly in terms of education, culture, and scholarship opportunities. This collaboration is part of FISIP Undip’s commitment to enhancing the quality of global education through active engagement with international partners.

The visit was represented by Felicity Lane, First Secretary of the Australian Embassy, and took place in the Senate Meeting Room, 2nd Floor of Building A, FISIP Undip Campus, Tembalang. Felicity Lane’s presence was warmly welcomed by the Dean of FISIP Undip, Dr. Teguh Yuwono, along with the Heads of Departments and Study Programs within FISIP. In his welcoming remarks, the Dean of FISIP Undip expressed his hopes that this collaboration would provide students with greater exposure to Australia, allowing them to explore various opportunities, particularly in the field of education.

Felicity Lane stated that this visit followed up on the exploratory collaboration visit conducted in June 2024. Several key topics discussed during this meeting included plans for hosting Australian Day and launching the Aussie Banget Corner at FISIP Undip. Lane added that these two programs were designed to introduce Australian culture to students and encourage their involvement in academic programs related to Australia.

Bangkit Aditya Wiryawan, Ph.D., Head of the International Affairs Unit at FISIP Undip, explained that Australian Day is scheduled to take place in early February 2025. The event is expected to serve as a bridge for FISIP Undip students to better understand the culture of the Land Down Under, while also sparking their interest in pursuing studies at Australian universities through next year’s IISMA program. According to Bangkit, student interest from FISIP Undip in choosing Australian universities remains low, making this event a strategic effort to increase their interest.

This collaborative visit reaffirms the commitment of both FISIP Undip and the Australian Embassy to expanding networks and facilitating international education opportunities for students, particularly in promoting academic mobility to Australia.

Contributor:
Nur Inayah