Tasmania, Australia – The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro (FPIK UNDIP), continues to expand its international network. This effort includes a strategic partnership initiative with the University of Tasmania (UTAS), Australia. The collaboration aims to strengthen research, academic mobility, and education in fisheries and marine sciences.
The initiative took place from 25 to 31 October 2026. During the visit, FPIK UNDIP sent two delegates: Eko Susanto, S.Pi., M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dr. Alfabetian Harjuno Condro Haditomo. They visited the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) at the University of Tasmania to explore opportunities for academic and research collaboration.
The visit also focused on preparing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) as the formal framework for institutional cooperation. Through this agreement, both institutions aim to establish sustainable programs that benefit their academic communities.
Indonesian Embassy Supports International Academic Cooperation
The visit began at the IMAS Salamanca Campus. On this occasion, the FPIK UNDIP delegation joined a team from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Canberra. The delegation was led by the Indonesian Ambassador to Australia, H.E. Dr. Siswo Pramono. The Education and Culture Attaché, Prof. Yuli Rahmawati, also attended the meeting.
The presence of Indonesian diplomatic representatives provided valuable support for the partnership between UNDIP and the University of Tasmania. Furthermore, this support strengthened efforts to connect Indonesian higher education institutions with internationally recognized universities and research centers.
Exploring IMAS Research Facilities in Fisheries and Aquaculture
The next agenda took place at the IMAS Taroona Campus, one of the University of Tasmania’s leading centers for fisheries and aquaculture research. The FPIK UNDIP delegation received a warm welcome from Prof. Sean Tracey, Co-Executive Director of IMAS and Centre Head for Fisheries and Aquaculture.
During the meeting, both parties discussed opportunities for joint research and academic capacity development. Prof. Tracey also guided the delegation on a tour of IMAS laboratories and research facilities.
One of the highlights was The Ocean, a new fisheries research building currently under development. This facility is expected to become an important center for future marine research and innovation.
The visit allowed FPIK UNDIP delegates to gain direct insights into IMAS research activities. In addition, the exchange of knowledge opened opportunities for collaborative research by combining the expertise and facilities of both institutions.
Expanding Joint Research, Doctoral Programs, and Academic Mobility
The meetings between FPIK UNDIP and IMAS resulted in several proposed follow-up programs. One of the main priorities is to develop joint research in fisheries and marine sciences.
Both institutions also explored opportunities for young FPIK UNDIP lecturers to pursue doctoral degrees at the University of Tasmania. This initiative aims to strengthen academic qualifications, research skills, and human resource capacity.
Furthermore, the partnership offers opportunities to organize an inbound summer course through UNDIP’s International Tropical Summer Course (ITroSCo). The program will provide an international learning environment for students to exchange knowledge and academic experiences.
The proposed collaboration also includes Visiting Professor and Adjunct Professor programs. Through these initiatives, academics from both institutions can contribute to teaching, scientific discussions, and curriculum development.
The strategic partnership initiative between FPIK UNDIP and the University of Tasmania marks an important step toward strengthening internationalization. Through joint research, doctoral education, and academic mobility, FPIK UNDIP aims to expand its contribution to global advances in fisheries and marine sciences.
This initiative also reflects FPIK UNDIP’s commitment to building sustainable international partnerships. By connecting academic expertise and research resources, both institutions seek to create meaningful opportunities for education, innovation, and scientific development.