HUMAS USU – Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) held an academic visit and strategic meeting with Center for Southeast Asian Studies Kyoto University (CSEAS Kyoto University) at Kyoto University on Wednesday (13/5/2026) as part of efforts to strengthen international interdisciplinary research collaboration.

The meeting was attended directly by USU Rector Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin along with university leaders, including Vice Rector for Research, Community Service, and Cooperation Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita and University Secretary Ir. Ikhsan Siregar.

The Rector stated that the meeting marked an important step toward opening broader opportunities for collaborative research between the two institutions, including joint research, international publications, researcher exchanges, and academic capacity development.

“Our cooperative relationship with Kyoto University has been very positive so far, particularly in the field of political science through collaborative research with Professor Okamoto. This collaboration serves as a strong foundation for expanding partnerships into other academic fields,” he said.

The Rector expressed hope that the successful collaboration in political science could be followed by research partnerships in other fields with strong development potential. According to him, synergy among researchers across countries is essential in generating innovation and solutions to global and regional challenges.

Through this meeting, USU reaffirmed its commitment to expanding international networks and enhancing research quality through collaboration with globally recognized universities and research centers.

Representatives from Kyoto University included researchers from various disciplines who have actively conducted research in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia.

During the academic discussion session, Kyoto University researchers presented their research expertise and focus areas. Topics discussed included energy transition policies, social research, peatlands, virology, media and public relations, mangrove ecosystems, marine studies, and other strategic issues relevant to current global challenges.

The discussion took place in an active and productive atmosphere, with researchers introducing various collaboration opportunities that could be developed together with the USU academic community.