Tianjin University, Indonesian Delegation Discuss Deeper Education and Research Cooperation

Tianjin University on Friday hosted a high-level delegation from Indonesia to explore deeper cooperation in education, scientific research, and talent development, as part of broader efforts to strengthen China–Indonesia institutional ties.

The delegation was led by A.M. Hendropriyono, chairman of the Yayasan Warga Bumiputra Indonesia (YWBI), and Garibaldi Thohir, chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Bilateral Committee for China (KIKT). The visit included meetings with university leadership, campus tours, and discussions on joint programs.

Tianjin University President Chai Liyuan said the university is committed to serving the Belt and Road Initiative and contributing to the development of a China–Indonesia community with a shared future. He highlighted the university’s experience in training international students, particularly from ASEAN countries.

“We are ready to work with Indonesian partners to contribute Tianjin University’s wisdom and solutions to bilateral cooperation and regional development,” Chai said.

Hendropriyono said the foundation hopes to see more and more outstanding Indonesian students to study in China for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in science and engineering.

“We hope our students will return home equipped with knowledge and global vision to contribute to national development,” he said.

The delegation visited several key facilities, including the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, the Zhengdong Library, and the National Facility for Earthquake Engineering Simulation, which features the world’s largest seismic shake table.

“For a country like Indonesia, which is prone to earthquakes, this kind of disaster prevention technology is invaluable,” Hendropriyono said.

During the visit, Timothy Joseph Hutagaol, an Indonesian master’s student in chemical engineering at Tianjin University, shared his study experience with the delegation.

“Tianjin University offers a rigorous research environment and top-tier academic platforms, allowing me to explore advanced topics in energy materials and process optimization,” he said. “I hope to apply this knowledge to support Indonesia’s development and foster academic and industrial collaboration between our countries.”

Thohir emphasized the importance of aligning academic programs with Indonesia’s economic transformation goals. He proposed launching joint initiatives in fields such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, agricultural meteorology, mineral processing, and food technology.

“Tianjin’s proximity to Beijing and its strong educational resources make it an ideal destination for Indonesian students,” he added.

According to YWBI, the two sides will deeper collaboration in talent cultivation. The plan also includes annual training programs in China for Indonesian middle school teachers.

“Youth are the future of both nations,” Thohir said. “This cooperation will help cultivate future leaders and deepen mutual understanding.”

The visit underscores Tianjin University’s efforts to contribute to China’s national strategies and enhance education cooperation with ASEAN countries. The university said it will continue to expand international partnerships and build long-term academic collaboration frameworks with Indonesian institutions.

By Eva Yin