Gresik – Taking a step further onto the international stage, Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik (UM Gresik) has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Asian Foundation for Education and Development (AFED), Cambodia.The event, themed “Exploring Bilateral Cooperation Between Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik and Asian Foundation for Education and Development”, took place on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the UM Gresik Meeting Room. The MoU is designed to open avenues for strategic collaboration in the fields of education, research, and community service.

Representing AFED, H.E. Dr. Raus Mansasry, President of the Asian Foundation for Education and Development, attended the ceremony, accompanied by Mr. El Yasak (Relation Department-AFED) and Mr. Abdurrahman Younos (Staff of Asian Office). From UM Gresik, the attendees included Rector Prof. Dr. Khoirul Anwar, S.Pd., M.Pd., Vice Rector I Dr. Slamet Asari, S.Pd., M.Pd., Director of Research and Community Service Prof. Dr. Yudhi Arifani, S.Pd., M.Pd., Head of the International Relations Office (IRO) Paulina, S.Pd., M.Pd., andHead of Admissions and New Student Enrollment Alif Sulthon Basyari, S.E., M.SM.

In his remarks, the Rector emphasized that the MoU represents a concrete step toward expanding UM Gresik’s global presence. “This collaboration not only opens opportunities for student and faculty exchanges but also reflects UM Gresik’s commitment to delivering excellent, independent, and Islamic education on the international stage,” he said.

AFED President Dr. Raus Mansasry expressed his appreciation for UM Gresik, stating that the partnership provides a solid foundation for the development of innovative programs that benefit not only both institutions but also the advancement of education across Asia.

Vice Rector I, Dr. Slamet Asari, added that the collaboration will further strengthen the university’s internationalization efforts. “With this MoU, UM Gresik students and faculty will have broader opportunities to collaborate, learn, and gain international experience,” he explained.

Similarly, Paulina, Head of IRO, highlighted the importance of building a global network. “Partnering with AFED opens doors for UM Gresik to gain wider recognition in international education. This is not just about academic exchange but also about creating meaningful relationships that benefit students and society,” she noted. Through this MoU, UM Gresik is optimistic about initiating various strategic programs, ranging from collaborative research and academic exchanges to community empowerment initiatives based on innovation. This milestone marks a new chapter for UM Gresik as a university that not only excels nationally but is increasingly confident on the international stage.