Yonemura: During your visit to Japan, you talked with students and faculty members participating in the WISE Program.
First, I would like to ask you for your impressions and suggestions about the program.

Nunuk: I thought the collaboration with local communities and businesses promoted by the program is particularly meaningful. At the University of Airlangga also, we are working on a program that highlights the local heritage.

Yonemura: Our program requires not only local social cooperation but also global cooperation.
How does the University of Airlangga consider connecting the two?

Nunuk: We believe that an approach based on local characteristics is our originality and provides a basis for global appeal. Airlangga University is in Surabaya, and we are constantly contemplating the unique experiences and study programs that only Surabaya can offer.We would like to demonstrate the strengths of Airlangga University to the world by promoting research and social practices rooted in the history and culture of the city. We are also considering a short program to solve local problems related to local characteristics. We believe that collaboration with the local society is the foundation and driving force for global interuniversity cooperation.

Yonemura: In terms of cultivating global leaders, do you have any comments or messages for the program, as well as for participating students?

Nunuk: I thought it was beneficial that the program provided opportunities for discussion not only with students in their academic fields, but also with students from diverse universities and fields. It is also important that opportunities for field research and international exchange are established. I would like to send a message to students: Look around the world. Studying abroad and international exchanges will not only give you a deeper knowledge of the society but will also help you form a network. This wealth of information can lead to unexpected ideas and career opportunities. There is a big difference between those who have seen, heard, and experienced things first-hand and those who have not. I have met many international students, and I have never encountered one who said that they regretted studying abroad. Make more friends, broaden your horizons, and gain a wealth of information; each of which is a very simple thing, but they are also important for your professional studies in graduate school. Studying is not just about what you do at your desk; I hope the program will allow you to experience more things.

Yonemura: I took the words "Look around the world" as a message of hearty encouragement to us from you, having studied in Japan, and being on the receiving side of international students at the University of Airlangga. Thank you very much.