UIN Jakarta Explores Collaboration with Moscow’s Institute of Oriental Studies
Russia, UIN News Online – The Rector of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar, along with his delegation comprising his Special Advisor, Prof. Kusmana, and the Head of the International Cooperation Services Center, Prof. Maila Dinia Husni Rahiem, conducted an official visit to the Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow on September 2nd, 2024. This visit is part of UIN Jakarta's broader initiative to expand its international network and elevate the quality of its research through partnerships with leading global institutions.
The UIN Jakarta delegation was warmly welcomed by the Director of the Institute of Oriental Studies, Prof. Aliakber Alikberov, who was accompanied by Prof. Popov Alexander, the Head of the Centre for Southeast Asia, Australia, and Oceania Studies. Prof. Popov, an expert in economics and bilateral relations between Russia and Southeast Asia, is fluent in Indonesian, which facilitated an in-depth discussion on potential collaboration opportunities between the two institutions.
Also present at the meeting was Dr. Alena V. Vladimirova, an expert in digital research methodologies with a strong portfolio of significant publications, including works on foreign trade patterns between Russia and Indonesia and network analysis in Asia. Her involvement highlights Russia's strong interest in expanding interdisciplinary and cross-national research.
Institute of Oriental Studies: A Hub for Eastern Research Excellence
The Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow is one of Russia's most esteemed research centers, focusing on studies of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Established in 1818, the institute emphasizes interdisciplinary research that spans cultural, historical, linguistic, political, and religious dimensions. With a solid international reputation, the institute is a cornerstone of oriental studies and has made significant contributions through its publications, conferences, and global academic collaborations.
The researchers at the Institute are leading experts in fields pertinent to Eastern studies and often play critical roles in cultural diplomacy through their scholarly endeavors. The institute also houses a significant collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and archives of great historical value, making it a rich resource for research.
Research Collaboration and Expertise Exchange Opportunities
The discussions during the visit focused on several promising areas of collaboration between UIN Jakarta and the Institute of Oriental Studies. Key topics included the development of joint research in Islamic studies, economics, and international relations, particularly concerning Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Both institutions also explored the potential for expertise exchange through visiting scholar programs and joint international seminars.
Another significant area of interest was collaboration in digital research and methodologies, especially given Dr. Alena V. Vladimirova's expertise in network analysis and international trade patterns. This partnership is expected to strengthen UIN Jakarta's research capabilities in strategic fields such as digital economics and regional studies, which are increasingly relevant in today's global landscape.
UIN Jakarta’s Strategy for Internationalization
The strategic partnership with Moscow’s Institute of Oriental Studies marks a critical step in UIN Jakarta’s internationalization strategy. By collaborating with a leading global research institution, UIN Jakarta aims to expand its academic presence on the global stage and improve its standing in the QS World University Rankings. This collaboration is expected to lead to high-quality, globally relevant research and broaden UIN Jakarta’s academic network.
Rector Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar highlighted that "The partnership between UIN Jakarta and the Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow is a strategic effort to improve academic and research quality while fostering greater cross-cultural understanding between Indonesia and Russia."
This visit represents the beginning of a closer collaboration between UIN Jakarta and the Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow, which is anticipated to yield significant benefits for both institutions and contribute to global knowledge development.