Building Global Partnerships: UINSSC-ICCCM Coordination Meeting on Virtual Exchange and SDGs Research Collaboration
Cirebon, June 19, 2025 -- the International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon held a small meeting to discuss the upcoming virtual student exchange program in collaboration with International Cultural Communication Center Malaysia (ICCCM). The meeting was attended by Mr. Lala Bumela Sudimantara Ph.D. as the Director of International Office, Ms. Siti Nurkhaleeda as the Director ITEA-ICCCM, Mr. Ivan Chabililah as the Project Management Officer ICCCM, and Global Engagement Team the Internship Students at International Office. The conference was held online, the session focused on early preparations for the virtual mobility program targeting students from two faculties: Faculty of Islamic Business Economics (FEBI), Faculty of Islamic Da'wah and Communication (FDKI). This initiative is part of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon’s broader strategy to expand international partnerships and provide students with global learning opportunities.
The meeting began with an overview presented by the International Office regarding the current status of international student mobility at UIN Siber Syekh Cirebon Mr. Lala Bumela Sudimantara Ph.D. emphasized the importance of such programs in enhancing cross-cultural understanding and academic collaboration. “We are committed to building meaningful international partnerships that not only benefit our students but also elevate the university's global presence,” he stated. The discussion then moved into logistical planning, including the timeline, participant selection process, and necessary support systems for the virtual format. It was agreed that the program would be conducted in a virtual model to accommodate diverse time zones and ensure maximum engagement.
One of the main points discussed by Ms. Siti Nurkhaleeda as the director ITEA-ICCCM Global Mobility Program was the development of a structured program and timeline plan for the virtual exchange. Mr. Ivan Chabibilah as the Project Management Officer ICCCM, shared insights on best practices based on previous exchanges they have facilitated across Southeast Asia. The program will include virtual classes, cultural sharing sessions, research initiatives projects, and leadership workshops. Budget considerations included facilitator fees, and digital certificate production, all of which will be co-managed between UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon and International Cultural Communication Center Malaysia (ICCCM). Both parties expressed optimism about securing internal funding and possible external sponsorships to support the initiative.
Another highlight of the meeting was the agreement that ICCCM will act as the official facilitator and will issue dual-certification upon completion of the program—jointly signed by both International Cultural Communication Center Malaysia (ICCCM) and UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon. This certification aims to add academic and professional value for participating students, especially when applying for further studies or employment. Siti Nurkhaleeda from ITEA-ICCCM explained, “This certificate serves as recognition of international exposure and intercultural competence, which are increasingly valued in today’s global workforce.” The International Office welcomed this initiative, seeing it as a step toward more formalized international credit recognition for UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon students.
In addition to academic and cultural exchange, the collaboration will focus on joint research initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research initiatives will involve institutions from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, promoting regional cooperation on environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The International Office sees this as an opportunity to contribute to global discourse while addressing local challenges through an international lens. Faculty members from Faculty of Islamic Business Economics (FEBI), and Faculty of Islamic Da’wah and Communication (FDKI) are expected to lead thematic research groups that will work closely with their overseas counterparts. The goal is to produce publishable outcomes and policy recommendations that reflect UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon’s commitment to ethical and sustainable development.
The International Office also outlined its vision for expanding future collaborations beyond student exchanges and research, including faculty exchanges, joint degree programs, and international conferences. These efforts are in line with UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon’s strategic plan to become a globally recognized institution rooted in Islamic values. All stakeholders expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of the program and looked forward to strengthening the partnership moving forward. With this momentum, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon continues to take confident steps toward internationalization and global excellence.
Author: Eka Fitrianingsih