Malang – Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA) welcomed Ms. Sussanna Chiu, International Office Manager of St. John’s University Taiwan, on Thursday, November 7, 2024, to discuss the continuation of their educational collaboration. The meeting focused on advancing the 2+2 and 3+1 joint/double degree programs between the two institutions.
In September 2024, UNISMA sent four engineering students to participate in the 2+2 joint degree program at St. John’s University. The program includes two years of study in Taiwan, followed by a two-year work contract with international companies in Taiwan. These students graduate with dual degrees: a Bachelor of Engineering from St. John’s University and an engineering degree from Indonesia. Upon completing the program, they can choose to continue working in Taiwan or explore opportunities with multinational companies worldwide.
The four students, from the Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering programs, received full scholarships through Taiwan’s INTENSE (Industrial Talents Education Special) initiative, which also supports their living expenses during their studies.
Building on the success of the 2+2 program, the 3+1 program is set to launch in 2025. This initiative allows students to complete three years of study at UNISMA before spending their final year at St. John’s University. The visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening academic ties and expanding international education opportunities for UNISMA students.
Dr. Erna Sulistyowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., UNISMA’s Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Cooperation, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are delighted to host Ms. Sussanna and further discuss the 3+1 program. Our 2+2 program has been a success, and we look forward to expanding this collaboration through more initiatives,” she remarked.
During her presentation, Ms. Sussanna Chiu emphasized the benefits of the 3+1 program. “This program is a golden opportunity for UNISMA students to gain comprehensive international experience. It not only offers full tuition scholarships but also provides a monthly living allowance of NTD 10,000 (approximately IDR 5 million), allowing students to focus entirely on their studies,” she explained. Ms. Sussanna also announced plans for a professor exchange program between UNISMA and St. John’s University. This initiative aims to strengthen academic relationships and enhance teaching quality at both institutions.
The visit reaffirmed St. John’s University’s commitment to supporting global education for Indonesian students while opening doors for broader collaboration between UNISMA and Taiwanese educational institutions. Through the 3+1 program and the professor exchange initiative, both universities aim to provide students with diverse learning experiences and prepare them for competition in the global job market. Ms. Sussanna’s visit and her enthusiasm for advancing this collaboration are expected to inspire UNISMA students to seize international opportunities.
