“Since the signing of MoUs between Indonesian and Indian Government in the President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono government, this exploratory seminar is the first realisation of the MoUs in the field of Education,” said His Excellency Rizali Wilamr Indra Kesuma, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia for India in his speech to participants of Exploratory Seminar between Indian and Indonesian Higher Institutions. The seminar was held from October 9-12, 2014.

Indonesian universities representatives participating in this seminar discussed possible collaboration programs with Jawaharlal Nehru University, India. YSU had the honour to host such a multinational academic meeting. Both YSU and JNU have built their cooperation since 2013.

Indonesia and India share cultural and historical proximity. Both countries are potential and supportive partners. The Buddhist and Hindu cultures are reflected in Indonesian and Indian culture. Javanese writing and written work are adapted Sanskrit and Indian literature. The populations of both countries are also among the biggest in the world. “India and Indonesia are two powers in Asia. Intellectual tradition which is passed from generation to generation since centuries ago has made India and Indonesia rich in culture strong in characters,” explained Prof. Girijesh Pant, a professor specialising in development and West Asia, emphasizing on the India-Indonesia relationship.

“Think big, act small. We should contribute to the development of our societies and work on the basis of problem-solving,” stated Pro. Iwan Pranoto, the Indonesian Attache for Education and Culture in India.

The potential collaborations among univerities are open in the fields of culture, information technology, agriculture, engineering, and agricultural technology. The seminar presented 12 keynote speakers from YSU and Jawaharlal Nehru University and was attended by representatives of 37 universities in Indonesia. (Yuliana)