Yogyakarta, Monday, November 25th, 2024. The Faculty of Cultural Sciences received a visit from Professor Clare McManus from the University of Glasgow. The visit aimed to explore various possibilities of cooperation in the field of education, especially focusing on double degree programs, student exchanges, research collaborations, and public lectures. The discussion centered on improving access to education and promoting education for sustainability, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Professor McManus began his visit with a warm introduction to faculty members and students, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in higher education. He highlighted that such partnerships not only enrich the academic experience but also contribute to a more sustainable future by building a global perspective among students.
One of the key proposals discussed was the establishment of a “one plus one” or double degree program in Linguistics, Archaeology, and English Literature. This initiative aims to provide students with the opportunity to earn degrees from both institutions, thus enhancing their academic credentials and competitiveness in the competitive job market.
In addition to the double degree program, the possibility of a student exchange program is also on the agenda. This exchange will focus on English Literature and Archaeology, allowing students to engage in different cultural contexts and academic environments. This initiative is expected to broaden students’ horizons and deepen their understanding of global issues, which are crucial for sustainable development.
Research collaboration was also a significant topic of discussion. Professor McManus proposed joint research projects in tourism, linguistics, archaeology and anthropology. By combining resources and expertise, both institutions can contribute to innovative research that addresses pressing societal challenges and promotes sustainable practices in these areas.
The visit also includes plans for a series of public lectures involving English Literature, Linguistics, Tourism, and Archaeology. These lectures aim to engage the wider community and stimulate discussion on critical issues related to culture, language and sustainability. Such initiatives are vital to raising awareness and building a culture of lifelong learning.
Throughout the discussions, the importance of access to education was a recurring theme. Both institutions recognize that education is a basic right and a key driver of sustainable development. By collaborating on these programs, they aim to create more inclusive educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
The Faculty of Cultural Sciences expressed enthusiasm for the possibilities of collaboration and the positive impact it can have on students and society. Faculty members committed to working closely with the University of Glasgow to finalize the details of these programs and ensure their successful implementation.
As the meeting concluded, Professor McManus and the faculty members agreed to continue their discussions and explore more opportunities for collaboration. This visit marks a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between the two institutions and advancing their shared goals of promoting education for sustainability and improving access to quality education.
