In an effort to strengthen global competitiveness and realize its vision of internationalization, a delegation from the Master of Sharia Economics Study Program, Faculty of Islamic Economics and Business (FEBI), UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, conducted a benchmarking visit to Batam International University (UIB). This two-day event, held from November 25 to 26, 2024, focused on exchanging experiences related to the development of international programs and global collaboration. The delegation, consisting of the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, lecturers, and program leaders, was warmly welcomed by the UIB leadership. The agenda included presentations on UIB’s flagship internationalization programs, panel discussions, visits to academic facilities, and further exploration of potential collaborations.
In her opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Business and Management, Mrs. Ria Karina, S.E., M.M., emphasized the significance of synergy among higher education institutions in addressing global challenges and meeting the accreditation standards of Lamemba. "We are delighted to share our experiences on how UIB has developed international programs, such as dual-degree programs, partnerships with foreign universities, and services for international students," she stated.
The Head of the Master of Sharia Economics Study Program, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Dr. Muhammad Ghafur Wibowo, S.E., M.Sc., also emphasized that this benchmarking activity served as an academic networking opportunity and provided valuable insights for developing internationalization strategies. “We are inspired by UIB’s success in attracting international students and building an internationally oriented curriculum. We hope to implement similar steps at our institution,” said Dr. Muhammad Ghafur Wibowo, S.E., M.Sc.
Furthermore, the discussions addressed the implementation of international standards in teaching, the development of student exchange programs, and efforts to attract international students. Several programs implemented include Joint Degree or 2+2 Program allowing students to earn a bachelor’s degree from either Batam International University (UIB) or a partner university. The 3+2 Program (Fast Track) enables students to complete a three-year bachelor’s program at UIB and a two-year master’s program at one of the partner universities in countries such as China, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Myanmar, Ghana, and France. Equally noteworthy is the 1+1 Program, where master’s students spend one year at UIB and one year at a foreign university.
Participants were particularly enthusiastic about UIB’s international promotion strategies, which have successfully increased the number of international students by 20% over the past five years. At the end of the event, both institutions explored opportunities for collaboration in joint research, student exchanges, and the development of other international programs. This benchmarking activity is expected to serve as a concrete initial step toward advancing the academic quality of the study program and supporting the achievement of international accreditation excellence.
“We are optimistic that this collaboration will have a positive impact, not only for our institutions but also for all students who will represent the nation on the global stage,” concluded Dr. Mukhamad Yazid Afandi, M.Ag., Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Faculty of Islamic Economics and Business, UIN Sunan Kalijaga.