Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau (Umri) agreed on academic cooperation with Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA). This collaboration was started by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by the Chancellor of UMRI and Chancellor of UNISSA in Brunei Darussalam, Monday (12/12/2022).

In his remarks, Umri Chancellor, Dr Saidul Amin MA mentioned that collaboration between two universities is essential. “This collaboration is a concrete measure for UMRI based on our target to collaborate with Southeast Asia universities in 2022. It is a great opportunity for Umri students and lecturers to have several joint programs, especially with UNISSA,” he said.

Furthermore, the Chancellor conveyed several collaborative programs that could be carried out soon, such as further postgraduate studies for Umri lecturers majoring in Islamic Finance, a speciality at UNISSA. The other important programs include guest lecturers, joint research and international student study service (KKN).

On the other hand, the Chancellor of UNISSA, Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal positively welcomed UMRI attendances and stated that the signing procession of the collaboration was the first step for long-term collaboration. “I asked the related Vice Chancellor to immediately discuss the details of the cooperation that can be carried out in the near future,” he concluded.

In addition, the Chancellor of UNISSA said that UNISSA is the second oldest university to be established in Brunei Darussalam. There are 7 Faculties at UNISSA, including the Faculty of Usuluddin, Shariah and Law, Sharia; Economics and Finance, and so on. Since its establishment in 2007, UNISSA has had 16 Bachelor Study Programs, 6 Masters Programs, and 14 Doctoral Programs.

Also attending the meeting, Vice Rector III Umri, Dr Jufrizal Syahri MSi delivered his presentation, Dr. Jufizal Syahri MSi expressed his hope that the collaboration, which will last for the next 5 years, can produce beneficial programs for both parties.

“According to the government program, UM Riau provides an opportunity to study at an overseas partner university for 3 semesters in the student mobility awards for students. Student Study Service (KKN) and matching grants for joint research become a priority of this collaboration,” he emphasized. [] UMRI