Yogyakarta, 27 May 2025 — Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta has advanced its global academic outreach by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University (NSPU), Russia. Held virtually from the Rector’s Office at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, the signing ceremony formalised a collaboration committed to the advancement of education, research, and intercultural understanding.

NSPU, the largest pedagogical university in Siberia, educates over 13,000 students with a teaching staff of more than 800. Recognized among Russia’s top five pedagogical institutions, NSPU has long prioritized international engagement. During the ceremony, Prof. S.A. Nelyubov, Rector of NSPU, emphasized the institution’s mission to cultivate a global academic community by promoting Russian language and culture, not as isolated initiatives but as integral components of its international outlook.

“This MoU is not merely symbolic,” Prof. Nelyubov remarked. “It reflects a deep commitment to fostering cross-border cooperation grounded in shared humanitarian values.”

Prof. Noorhaidi, Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting its potential to strengthen institutional capacities and drive forward collaborative research. He noted UIN’s internationally acknowledged centres of excellence and conveyed appreciation for NSPU’s willingness to explore the establishment of Islamic and Indonesian studies in Russia, as well as Russian cultural studies in Indonesia.

“This partnership opens a path toward more profound cultural exchange and mutual learning in a world that increasingly demands collaboration and understanding,” said Prof. Noorhaidi.

Dr. Abdur Rozaki, Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, echoed the sentiment, stating that the initiative would enhance educational and cultural links between Indonesia and Russia through sustained academic engagement.

Elaborating on the scope of the agreement, Dr. Witriani, Head of the Center for the Development of Cultural and International Affairs (CDCIA), outlined various areas of cooperation, including joint academic programs, scientific research, faculty and student exchanges, staff development, pedagogical innovation, and co-organised international conferences.

The partnership stands as a forward-looking model of higher education as a bridge between civilisations — fostering intellectual exploration, mutual respect, and lasting collaboration. In a global landscape shaped by shared challenges, this agreement highlights the transformative role universities can play far beyond the classroom. (humassk)