Strategic Collaboration: UINSSC, Adelaide University, and ICCCM Explore Global Partnerships
Cirebon, April 17, 2025 — The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) facilitated an online collaborative meeting involving representatives from Adelaide University (Australia); Prof. Rudolf Wirawan, the International Centre for Contemporary Cultural and Media Studies (ICCCM); Mr. Ivan Chabibilah, M.Li., and senior UINSSC lecturer Dr. Fahrudin Eko. This virtual gathering was part of UINSSC’s ongoing internationalization strategy, exploring possibilities for joint research, academic exchanges, and globally oriented curriculum development. Attending the online meeting was the director of the International Office – Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., acting as hosts and institutional liaisons. His presence reflects the IO’s active role in bridging collaborations across nations and cultures. Despite being held virtually, the session maintained a warm yet professional atmosphere, marking an important first step toward long-term academic cooperation.
The discussion centered around the development of an academic ecosystem that fosters cross-cultural exchange of ideas. Dr. Fahrudin Eko emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary perspectives in addressing today’s global challenges. He highlighted how cultural and media approaches could serve as powerful tools to broaden UINSSC students’ global understanding. This aligns with the International Office’s mission to shape graduates who are locally grounded yet globally minded.
Representatives from Adelaide University expressed appreciation for UINSSC’s openness and readiness to engage in academic collaboration. During the virtual dialogue, they noted the potential synergy between UINSSC’s digital curriculum and Australia’s research-driven educational framework. As a strategic partner, ICCCM also stressed the importance of exploring media and contemporary culture studies, particularly within the Southeast Asian context. Shared interests in intercultural studies served as a foundation for further collaboration. The International Office played a key role in facilitating communication and drafting the next steps for follow-up.
Beyond academic integration, the meeting opened up discussions on faculty and student exchange opportunities. Adelaide University conveyed their interest in inviting UINSSC lecturers as guest speakers for their online programs, while ICCCM expressed a desire to co-develop a virtual summer course. The International Office team confirmed their readiness to support the administrative logistics and platform integration necessary for such initiatives. These efforts will not only boost UINSSC’s visibility on the global academic stage but also enrich the international learning experience for its academic community.
The meeting also resulted in initial agreements to establish a joint research cluster focusing on contemporary issues such as digital identity, media literacy, and cultural transformation in the tech era. This collaboration will begin with the drafting of joint research proposals and the exchange of scholarly publications. The International Office will coordinate a series of follow-up virtual meetings to ensure continuity and progress. This move is in line with UINSSC’s mission to contribute globally through research-based academic engagement. The support from Adelaide University and ICCCM adds momentum to UINSSC’s growing community of researchers and young scholars.
Importantly, the gathering was not only about formal agreements—it was about building mutual trust and a spirit of shared purpose. The online dialogue allowed for honest reflection on the challenges of higher education in a global context and how each institution could strengthen the other. The meeting’s atmosphere remained open and constructive, yet focused on tangible outcomes. The International Office documented several key action points to be followed up over the next two months. Active participation from all parties reflected a strong foundation for future collaboration.
As the meeting concluded, the International Office team extended their gratitude for the collaborative spirit shown by all participants. The session stands as a testament to the IO’s guiding vision: “Local Vision, Global Precision.” Through this cross-continental, cross-disciplinary online dialogue, UINSSC once again affirmed its role as an institution committed to meaningful, high-quality global partnerships. “This is a promising beginning. We believe today’s small steps will lead to a greater impact in the future,” Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. With renewed enthusiasm, the International Office is ready to continue its academic diplomacy, advancing UINSSC’s presence on the world stage.
Author (Bustanul Arifin)