Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Jovian Dian Pratama, S.Mat., M.Mat., a lecturer at the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM), Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), participated in a Staff Mobility (Staff Exchange) Program at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The program is part of Universitas Diponegoro’s efforts to expand its international academic network and strengthen research collaboration with globally reputable universities.
During his stay at Khalifa University, Jovian conducted collaborative research with Prof. Hadi Susanto from the Department of Mathematics, College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences. Their research focuses on mathematical modeling using nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs), stochastic systems, and thermal-hydraulic modeling for next-generation nuclear reactor systems.
In addition to gaining valuable academic experience, Jovian said that one of the most memorable aspects of the program was the opportunity to meet the Indonesian student community in Abu Dhabi. He experienced a strong sense of community among Indonesian students pursuing doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees and postdoctoral research at various institutions across the United Arab Emirates.
“I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet fellow Indonesians in Abu Dhabi. They were very friendly, supportive, and helped me a great deal during my stay here. We even had the opportunity to attend Friday prayers together and engage in extensive discussions about both academic life and everyday life in the United Arab Emirates. This was a truly memorable experience for me,” Jovian said.
Through the program, Jovian expanded his academic network by connecting with 20 Indonesian academics and students as well as 10 international academics from various countries. These connections are expected to provide a valuable foundation for developing future international research collaborations.
One of the program’s significant outcomes was the preparation of a Letter of Intent (LoI) as an initial commitment toward academic collaboration between Universitas Diponegoro and Khalifa University, together with Prof. Hadi Susanto. The LoI is expected to serve as an important first step toward broader and more sustainable research collaboration between the two institutions.
During the visit, Prof. Hadi Susanto also introduced Jovian to several academics at Khalifa University whose areas of expertise align with his research interests. They were identified as potential supervisors should Jovian pursue a Ph.D. at Khalifa University. These discussions provided him with a clearer perspective on possible directions for his research development and further study opportunities in applied mathematics and complex systems modeling.
The Staff Mobility Program also resulted in a scientific collaboration involving the preparation of a joint research article with one of Prof. Hadi Susanto’s students, whose expertise closely aligns with Jovian’s research. The manuscript is currently being prepared and is targeted for completion by the end of August before being submitted to a reputable international journal.
During his time at Khalifa University, Jovian also received a very warm welcome from his academic partners. Intensive scientific discussions took place in an open and collaborative environment, providing him with valuable experience in both academic development and international networking.
Beyond research experience, the program also provided valuable insights into life in Abu Dhabi. Through interactions with members of the Indonesian academic community who have lived in the United Arab Emirates for an extended period, Jovian gained practical information about everyday life, including accommodation, transportation, educational facilities, healthcare services, and various administrative matters.
“This program not only broadened my academic perspective but also strengthened my independence, resilience, and ability to adapt to an international environment. I also gained a great deal of useful information about living in Abu Dhabi. This experience will certainly be very valuable if I pursue a Ph.D. in the future and bring my wife and child to live with me in the United Arab Emirates,” he added.
Through this experience, Jovian hopes that international collaboration between Universitas Diponegoro and Khalifa University will continue to grow through research activities, joint publications, academic exchanges, and human resource development in the future.
The Staff Mobility Program also represents a tangible manifestation of the commitment of the Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Universitas Diponegoro, to supporting the internationalization of higher education, improving research quality, and strengthening Universitas Diponegoro’s position on the global stage.
“I hope that the article we are currently preparing can be completed according to schedule and that the submission process will proceed smoothly. I also hope that the Department of Mathematics, the Faculty of Science and Mathematics, and Universitas Diponegoro will continue to achieve greater recognition internationally and demonstrate that the UNDIP academic community is capable of competing and collaborating at the global level,” Jovian concluded.
