USK Successfully Holds Seminar on Global Mobility and Innovation for Students, Lecturers, and Young Professionals

Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), through its Office of International Affairs (OIA), successfully held a seminar titled “Go Global with Fully Funded Mobility Activities for Students, Lecturers, and Young Professionals” on 24 July 2025, at the VIP Room of AAC Dayan Dawood, Universitas Syiah Kuala. The event attracted participants from diverse academic backgrounds who were eager to learn more about fully funded international mobility programs such as the IATSS Forum in Japan and the YSEALI Academy Seminar (YAS). The seminar adopted the overarching theme of “Driving Local Impact with Innovation on Road Safety and Waste Management.”

The event was officially opened by Dr. Iflan Nauval, M.ScIH, Sp.GK(K), Sp.KKLP, AIFO-K, Director of the Directorate of Planning and Partnerships at USK. In his remarks, Dr. Iflan emphasized the importance of maintaining enthusiasm for pursuing education abroad, despite a current decline in interest toward international studies. He stated that aspiring to study overseas is a commendable goal that should be continuously encouraged. He also expressed hope that the speakers at the seminar would provide fresh insights and open up broader opportunities. However, he also reminded participants of the importance of preserving cultural identity and not being swayed by foreign values that may not align with local traditions.

The seminar featured three inspiring speakers Ir. Juliana Fisaini, S.T., M.T., a lecturer in Civil Engineering at USK and a transportation expert, Rizanna Rosemary, S.Sos., M.Si., MHC., Ph.D., a lecturer in Disaster Communication and founder of e.tikbroh.yak, an online-based waste pick-up system, and Ir. Izzan Nur Aslam, S.T., M.Eng., a lecturer in Mining Engineering at USK and an alumnus of both the IATSS Forum in Japan and the YSEALI Academy Seminar (YAS).

They shared their experiences and insights regarding international mobility programs as well as innovative initiatives contributing to sustainable local development.

One of the highlights of the seminar was a collaborative research project by Ir. Juliana Fisaini and Ir. Izzan Nur Aslam on utilizing plastic waste as a substitute material for asphalt in road construction. This research, funded by the YSEALI Academy Seminar, served as a real-world example of how cross-disciplinary academic innovation can address pressing issues such as waste management and road safety.

Additionally, Dr. Rizanna Rosemary emphasized the competitive nature of funding opportunities for study, training, seminars, workshops, and research abroad. She encouraged young people to be more aware of local issues and to engage actively in their communities. By doing so, they not only enhance their personal capacities but also pave the way for impactful global contributions rooted in local relevance upon returning home.

The IATSS Forum (International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences Forum) is an international leadership training program for young professionals under the age of 35 from Southeast Asia, India, and Japan. Held in Suzuka, Japan, and founded in 1985 by Soichiro Honda and Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the program runs for 7–8 weeks under the philosophy of “Thinking and Learning Together.” It focuses on leadership development, cross-cultural teamwork, and addressing regional issues such as sustainable development, transportation, and the environment. Through seminars, field studies, and intensive English-language discussions, participants are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and innovate—all fully funded by the program.

In addition to the seminar sessions, various information booths were available, offering guidance on global mobility opportunities such as the IATSS Forum, YSEALI Academy Seminar (YAS), YSEALI PFP/AFP, OIA USK programs, ANU Future Research Talent, Education USA, and the e.tikbroh.yak platform. These booths gave participants direct access to practical information about international programs and scholarships.

Through this seminar, USK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the internationalization of education and strengthening innovative, relevant, and sustainable global collaborations. The event was also part of USK’s broader effort to encourage students, lecturers, and young professionals to contribute actively to solving global challenges through locally impactful innovation.