On September 21, 2023, the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (FMAE) at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) welcomed a visit from a delegation from Hokkaido University. Maria Stefanie D, Ph.D., and Kato Sachiko, the academic representatives from Hokkaido University, were warmly welcomed by the FMAE delegation, who were also accompanied by representatives from the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering (FTSL). The main purpose of this visit was to explore the potential for cooperation between ITB and Hokkaido University in student exchange programs. The meeting also served as a platform to share information and look for future collaboration opportunities.

The discussion began with introductions from both universities. ITB introduced student exchange programs that can be done in two directions, from ITB to partner institutions or the other way around (Outbound/Inbound Mobility). Usually, most ITB students join this program during their fourth semester of study, with a maximum of 18 SKS that can be taken. ITB also explains the regulations for students participating in the student exchange program.

The Hokkaido University delegation explained the opportunities available to ITB students through the Hokkaido University Short-Term Exchange Program (HUSTEP). HUSTEP is designed to allow students from affiliated universities to study in Japan at Hokkaido University for half a year or a full year. Courses in this program are conducted in English.

Participants in the program can take various courses taught in English, covering two core divisions: Culture and Society, Science, Technology, and Environment. Students also have the opportunity to learn Japanese. In addition, students accepted into the program can apply for scholarships. HUSTEP offers two course curriculums each year: HUSTEP Spring and HUTSEP Fall.

The discussion also covered the Bachelor-Master Integration Program (Fast-Track program) owned by ITB and Hokkaido University. Delegates from both universities actively seek opportunities for collaboration in developing these programs, including the possibility of Fast-Track, double degree, or joint degree, which allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree at ITB and continue master’s studies at Hokkaido University. Hokkaido University welcomes this potential, although with additional requirements such as master’s student status in the related faculty and adjustment of documents and other academic aspects.

In addition, Hokkaido University also presented several agendas that have potential for collaboration, such as student visa regulations and the Inbound program in October, as well as the Spring School program in March. These are positive steps in both universities’ efforts to expand their academic cooperation.

The visit from Hokkaido University opened up opportunities for academic collaboration and opportunities for ITB students to expand their knowledge through international exchange programs. The discussion between the two universities was successful. It paved the way for future cooperation and strengthened the relationship between ITB and Hokkaido University to achieve academic excellence and global engagement.