Makassar (ANTARA) - On October 22, 2024, the Faculty of Public Health (FKM), Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) took a significant step in fostering international collaboration by engaging in a discussion with the Graduate School of Public Health at Seoul National University (GSPH SNU). The event, held at the GSPH SNU campus, aimed to explore potential partnerships between the two institutions in the field of public health.
Dr. Wahiduddin, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs led the delegation. Dr. Hasnawati Amqam as the Head of Bachelor Program of Public Health, Dr. Abdul Salam as The Head of Bachelor Program of Nutrition, as well as some lecturers , Dian Sidik Arsyad, MKM, Dr. Syamsuar M, Ulfah Najamuddin, PhD, Dr, Balqis Nazaruddin, Adelia Undang Sari, MARS, Suci Rahmadani, M.Kes, A. Muflihah M.Kes joined the delegation. The GSPH SNU warmly welcomed the visiting group, including the Dean, Lee Tae Jin, PhD, Associate Dean of Student Affairs Yi Seung-Muk, PhD, and Hwang Seungsik, MD., PhD, the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs.
The discussion began with a session where each institution introduced itself. Dr. Wahiduddin highlighted the academic programs, research activities, and achievements of FKM UNHAS, emphasizing the faculty's role in advancing public health education in Indonesia. He underscored the importance of international collaborations in strengthening institutional capacities to address global health challenges. In response, the Dean of GSPH SNU presented an overview of the school's academic strengths and innovative programs. He emphasized GSPH SNU's commitment to fostering partnerships with international institutions, particularly with those in Indonesia, to develop solutions for a wide range of public health issues.
Following the introductions, the discussion shifted to exploring opportunities for collaboration between FKM UNHAS and GSPH SNU. Key topics included student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and the potential organization of scientific seminars and conferences in the future.
Dr. Wahiduddin expressed optimism about the prospects of the collaboration, hoping that it would soon materialize and yield tangible benefits for both institutions, particularly in enhancing academic and research capacity in public health.
"This collaboration is crucial, not only for strengthening international networks but also for sharing experiences and knowledge in improving public health, both in Indonesia and South Korea," he noted.
GSPH SNU responded positively to FKM UNHAS's initiative, affirming its commitment to supporting various forms of cooperation in the future. They expressed their hope that this initial discussion would pave the way for developing joint programs and projects that could significantly benefit both communities.
The discussion concluded with an agreement to develop a follow-up action plan to implement the proposed collaborations. Both parties committed to maintaining open communication to ensure the successful realization of each planned program. This meeting marked a promising beginning for strengthening academic cooperation between FKM UNHAS and GSPH SNU. Through this partnership, both institutions aim to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and efforts to improve public health at regional and global levels.
