PASSAU, February 13, 2025 – The Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, Antonius Yudi Triantoro, accepted an invitation from the University of Passau and participated in a strategic meeting with Prof. Dr. Martina Padmanabhan, Chair of Critical Development Studies – Southeast Asia. Also present at the meeting were Dr. Roniyus Marjunus, Education and Cultural Attaché of the Indonesian Embassy in Berlin, and representatives from the Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences and the Language Center of the University of Passau.

During the meeting, various cooperation opportunities were discussed to increase Indonesia's presence at the University of Passau and in Germany. One key focus was to promote the interest of German and international students in learning the Indonesian language, as well as to increase the number of Indonesian students at the University of Passau.

University representatives expressed their desire to attract more Indonesian students to their study programs, particularly for a planned international bachelor’s program designed to support and facilitate integration into the German job market. This program aims to provide Indonesian students with opportunities to expand their academic perspectives and pursue international career prospects.

Additionally, internationalization strategies such as student and faculty mobility, dual degree programs, academic excursions, and joint research projects were discussed. In this context, educational and cultural cooperation is expected to further strengthen diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Germany.

The Chair of Critical Development Studies, in collaboration with the Language Centre, also plans to introduce an intercultural competence and communication program focusing on Germany-Indonesia relations. This initiative aims to enhance the intercultural skills of professionals in both countries, equipping students and professionals with the necessary knowledge and abilities to navigate an increasingly globalized world successfully.

The visit marks a significant step in deepening bilateral relations in education and culture and opens up new cooperation opportunities for students and researchers from both countries.

Author: Anna Knöbl, PhD student at the University of Passau.