Polytech — a hub of attraction: new steps in cooperation with Indonesia

The head of the Russian House representative office in Indonesia, Nikita Shilikov, visited the Polytechnic University. The meeting focused on expanding longstanding partnership efforts, which in recent years have come to encompass not only educational programs but also active engagement with the Indonesian scientific community.

The meeting was opened by Dmitry Arseniev, Vice-Rector for International Affairs of SPbPU, who presented the key areas of work within the structure of the International Department: the development of inter-university cooperation and international scientific collaboration, as well as work with international students and educational programs. Special emphasis was placed on the many years of experience in interaction with Indonesian universities, which spans more than a decade. Over the past two years, this cooperation has reached a qualitatively new level. Last year, a delegation from SPbPU conducted an extensive program, «Polytech Days in Indonesia.» The events covered key universities in the country — the University of Indonesia and Gunadarma University — and also included meetings at the ministerial level and participation in major educational exhibitions. During the visit, agreements were signed to establish a Joint Russian-Indonesian Center for Training Personnel in Engineering and Entrepreneurship, to launch a dual-degree master’s program with Gunadarma University, as well as a memorandum of understanding and a student exchange agreement with the University of Indonesia.

The meeting participants discussed issues of scientific cooperation, including publication activity in international journals (Scopus), as well as the prospects for developing short-term educational programs and summer schools. The head of the Indonesian representative office highly appreciated the Polytechnic University’s work in adapting international students, creating associations, and supporting youth initiatives. In his opinion, Polytechnic University has become a hub for Indonesian students in Russia. The university annually hosts the symposium of the Indonesian Students Association «PERMIRA,» dedicated to youth intercultural entrepreneurship and public diplomacy.

Russia and Indonesia are currently experiencing a truly historic moment in the development of bilateral relations. We are witnessing a dynamic rapprochement between our countries, the strengthening of humanitarian and academic ties, and the signing of an agreement on the mutual recognition of diplomas and academic degrees, emphasized Nikita Shilikov.

As a result of the visit, the parties agreed on regular information exchange, the continuation of negotiations on specific educational tracks, and participation in joint events — exhibitions, conferences, and presentation tours.