UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta co-hosted the AppliedHE Xchange 2025 at the InterContinental Bali. On its final day, Tuesday (25/2/2025), the event continued with engaging discussions and interactive workshops. The agenda emphasized the synergy between education and industry to promote an inclusive and sustainable future. It also explored the crucial role of alumni in assessing the success of higher education institutions.
Key Insights from Country Report Session
The third day began with a country report session titled “Education Policy: The Future of HE Learning.” Renowned speakers shared insights on global education policies:
- Prof. Kevin Downing (City University of Hong Kong) highlighted China’s adaptable higher education policies.
- Prof. Dr. Fitria Rahmawati (Vice-Rector for Academic and Research Affairs, UNS) discussed Indonesia’s innovative approach to integrating research. She also highlighted the role of technology-based learning in this integration.
- Sinethemba Mpambane (Walter Sisulu University, South Africa) addressed challenges faced by African higher education.
- Prof. Dr. Tirta Mursitama (Deputy Minister for Investment Cooperation, Indonesia) emphasized the significance of collaboration between higher education and investment. He highlighted its role in supporting economic growth.
Aligning Curriculum with Market Needs
Following a networking break, a panel discussion focused on “Curriculum Alignment with Market Needs.” Experts explored how universities can design curricula that meet labor market demands.
- Prof. Dr. Agr. Ir. Sigit Prastowo (Director of Academic Affairs, UNS) emphasized the importance of competency-based curriculum design.
- Angelica Baylon (Maritime Academy of Asia & the Pacific, Philippines) shared insights on cross-sector collaboration in maritime education.
- Prof. Dr. Valliappan Raju (MAHSA University, Malaysia) discussed the role of technology in enhancing curriculum effectiveness.
Prof. Sigit noted, “UNS integrates practical training, internship programs, and industry certifications to ensure students acquire relevant skills. These initiatives help them remain competitive in the workforce.”
Showcasing University Innovations
The event also featured an elevator pitch session, allowing universities to present their innovations. Participants included:
- Maritime Academy of Asia & the Pacific
- Jesselton University College
- Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
- Pangasinan State University
Leveraging Alumni for Internationalization
In the afternoon, Dary Milani and Zeba Salman led a mini-workshop titled “Leveraging Alumni for Internationalization.” They provided strategies for utilizing alumni networks to support international collaboration.
A panel discussion followed, exploring how skills development impacts institutional rankings and reputation. Ibrahim Fatwa Wijaya, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D. (UNS) shared how UNS enhances its reputation by aligning graduate skills with market needs. Meanwhile:
- Prof. Sibrand Poppema (Sunway University) emphasized integrating knowledge, values, and industry requirements.
- Dr. Dian Ekowati (Universitas Airlangga) discussed the role of universities in bridging the workforce skills gap.
Closing Remarks and Future Collaboration
In his closing speech, Ibrahim Fatwa Wijaya expressed gratitude to all participants and speakers.
“It has been an honor to engage in thought-provoking discussions and build meaningful connections. This event not only deepened our understanding of higher education but also fostered collaboration to address global challenges. May the relationships and ideas shared here continue to grow.”
Mandy Mok, CEO of AppliedHE, also extended her appreciation to UNS:
“We deeply appreciate Universitas Sebelas Maret for co-hosting AppliedHE Xchange 2025. We hope this event strengthens partnerships between higher education and industry while fostering sustainable global development.”
Supporting Global Sustainable Development
With UNS as a co-host, AppliedHE Xchange 2025 served as more than just a knowledge-sharing platform. The event actively supported Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17 by facilitating cross-sector collaborations. It also strengthened global partnerships for an inclusive and sustainable future.
HUMAS UNS
