CSCSE, operating under the Chinese Ministry of Education, facilitates opportunities for foreign students to study in China and vice versa. This collaborative effort commemorated the 10th anniversary of the China-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the "one belt one road" program initiated by President Xi Jinping. ITB, recognized for its technological expertise, was identified as a strategic partner for collaboration.

The visit was greeted by Prof. Dr. Ir. Jaka Sembiring, M.Eng., Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs at ITB. Prof. Jaka emphasized the longstanding collaboration between ITB and Chinese universities, particularly in the field of technology. He acknowledged the potential of Indonesian students and their contributions to the success of such programs.

CSCSE's General Director, Cheng Jiacai, expressed the Chinese government's interest in the Indonesian education sector due to the exceptional potential of Indonesian students. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, he highlighted that China remains a significant destination for Indonesian students, and this program aims to further facilitate student exchanges.

The program targets an increase in the number of Indonesian students studying in China, with an emphasis on post-pandemic recovery. Currently, there are over 15,000 Indonesian university students in China, and CSCSE aims to attract more applicants through collaborative initiatives with institutions like ITB.

ITB, in turn, expressed its commitment to supporting the program. Deans from various faculties and schools at ITB were present during the meeting to ensure widespread dissemination of information. Prof. Jaka envisioned that this collaboration would extend beyond student exchanges, fostering joint research activities through ITB's Institute for Research and Community Service (IRCS ITB).

The partnership with CSCSE not only strengthens educational ties between Indonesia and China but also lays the foundation for broader cooperation in various fields. Through educational initiatives supported by CSCSE and the Chinese government, the collaboration aims to enhance the quality of Indonesian education, contributing positively to the nation's development.

Reporter: Pravito Septadenova Dwi Ananta (Geological Engineering, 2019)

Translator: Hanna Daniela Ayu (Aerospace Engineering, 2021)

Editor: M. Naufal Hafizh