- Posted by : OCIA UMB
- on : June 28, 2022
Jakarta - The Rector of Muhammadiyah University of Bengkulu (UMB), Dr Sakroni, M.Pd., joined a high-level virtual forum aimed at exploring education diplomacy and cross-continental partnerships between Indonesia and Africa. The event, titled Ambassadorial Talk: Potential Collaboration between Indonesian Embassy for Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Uni Africa and International Offices of Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Higher Educations, was held by the Association of International Offices of Muhammadiyah–‘Aisyiyah Universities (ASKUI PTMA).
Held via Zoom on Tuesday afternoon, the talk featured key figures including H.E. Al Busyro Basnur, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the African Union. The ambassador highlighted the growing importance of South-South cooperation in higher education, encouraging Indonesian Islamic universities to deepen academic ties with African institutions.
Dr Sakroni welcomed the opportunity for expanded collaboration. “We see Africa not only as a new frontier for internationalization but also as a strategic partner for knowledge-based development,” he said during the session. He expressed UMB’s interest in launching student exchange programmes, joint community service initiatives, and collaborative research in social development.
The forum was also attended by leading figures from the Muhammadiyah Central Board, including Prof Lincolin Arsyad, M.Sc., Ph.D., and Prof Dr H. Edy Suandi Hamid, M.Ec., both chairing the Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development. The session was moderated by ASKUI PTMA Chairman Yordan Gunawan, S.H., M.H., MBA.
Participants agreed to initiate a roadmap for institutional partnerships, including MoUs with African universities under the ambassador’s coordination. Key thematic areas discussed included Islamic education, sustainable development, and academic mobility in the Global South.
As Muhammadiyah expands its global footprint, particularly in emerging regions, forums like these reflect its growing role in grassroots diplomacy and its commitment to building bridges between Muslim communities worldwide.
“This is a gateway,” said Ambassador Basnur, “for Muhammadiyah to become a key academic player in Africa’s transformation.”