The Global Affair Palopo State Islamic Institute (IAIN Palopo) undertook a strategic benchmarking initiative aimed at higher education internationalization and the development of international cooperation at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS). The benchmarking session was conducted at the Office of Collaboration and International Affairs (BKUI) UMS on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in the BKUI UMS Meeting Room.

The primary objective of this activity was for IAIN Palopo to gain insights into best practices related to the management of international affairs. These practices cover a range of important aspects, including organizational structure, Work Plan, management of international student affairs, mobility and hospitality services, website and portal management for international offices, as well as internal and external communication, and collaboration file management.

BKUI UMS responded by providing detailed explanations and strategic guidance on managing international classes and recruiting foreign students. The engagement showed an active two-way discussion, with IAIN Palopo positively responding to the information shared by UMS.

Andy Dwi Bayu Bawono, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., Director of the Office of Collaboration and International Affairs at UMS, expressed his hope for ongoing collaboration between UMS and IAIN Palopo. He highlighted the potential for future cooperation, particularly in establishing KKN (Kuliah Kerja Nyata) placements for UMS students in the Palopo area as one of the tangible outcomes of this partnership.

This meeting marks an important step in fostering collaborative efforts between the two institutions, focusing on strengthening internationalization and enhancing the quality of higher education through partnerships.