To embody an Asian reputable university in 2020, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) accepted 79 international students from 14 countries that the number of students is greater than last year. The 50 students are full-time students, 27 students are exchange students, and the other two students have an internship.

On Monday (16/10) at Rectorate Lobby of UMY, the 79 students attended a gathering with UMY leadership and Head of Bureau of Cooperation. In his remark, Rector of UMY informed that 31 Asian universities are included in top 100 world universities. “This fact shows that Asian universities are reputable universities contributing to development of sciences and technology. Indeed, connection among researchers, nations, and people are now developed so that new ideas and phenomena will easily be disseminated,” he declared.

Therefore, UMY is aware that the best effort to respond the dynamical social and political situations is to send staffs and students to have an exchange as well as to accept foreign staffs and students to engage in academic and non-academic activities at UMY. “7 students are from University of Princeton, the USA. Next year UMY will accept 400 students from foreign partner universities,” told Rector of UMY.

Dr. Gunawan expected that the international students can enjoy learning at UMY and they can explore their knowledge of Indonesia, Muslims, and Indonesian culture. “You are not only students but also our new family. Thus, if you get difficulty during your study, you may tell us and we will help you. Indeed, you may share your experiences to your friends who study at your university or will study in Indonesia, particularly at UMY,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, a Pilipino student Enrique Batara taking Doctoral Program of Political Studies at UMY shared her study experiences. She was amazed by buildings at UMY from the architecture and facilities. She said that learning atmosphere at UMY is very competitive. UMY lecturers are very competent and helpful so that she is happy to study at UMY.

Besides, Ms. Elka from Princeton University, New Jersay, the USA is jubilant to have an internship at UMY. “I feel that learning process at UMY is excellent. Who knows that I will pursue my doctoral degree at this university when I come back here,” she expressed.