China, October 13–26, 2026 – Prof. Dr. Runjati, Bdn., M.Mid., Head of the Center for Research, Community Service, Journals, and the Health Research Ethics Committee (KEPK) at Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang, participated in the international seminar Seminar on Implementing Global Development Initiative and Promoting China–Indian Ocean Rim Higher Education Cooperation, held from October 13 to 26, 2026, at Zhejiang Normal University, China.
Participation in this event represents a strategic step for Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang in expanding its international network, enhancing knowledge exchange, and creating opportunities for collaboration among higher education institutions in education, research, and community service—the three pillars of higher education.
At the opening ceremony, Prof. Dr. Runjati, Bdn., M.Mid. was honored to deliver a speech representing all participants from six countries, namely Indonesia, South Africa, Kiribati, Tanzania, Iraq, and Malaysia. In her speech, she expressed sincere appreciation to Zhejiang Normal University and the organizers for their warm hospitality and for facilitating this international forum, which brought together representatives of higher education institutions from various countries.
She emphasized that cross-border educational exchange and institutional capacity building are not merely beneficial but have become essential in an increasingly interconnected world. Through knowledge sharing, policy dialogue, and collaborative governance, higher education institutions are expected to strengthen their institutional capacities, develop globally minded human resources, and address various regional challenges.
Furthermore, Prof. Runjati expressed her hope that the seminar would provide a platform for constructive discussions, the exchange of innovative ideas, and the development of sustainable professional relationships. The gathering is expected to serve as a catalyst for stronger academic cooperation, joint research initiatives, and enhanced institutional capacity across participating countries. She also encouraged all participants to embrace this valuable opportunity with open minds and a collaborative spirit to advance higher education and sustainable global development.
These messages align with the commitment of Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang to strengthening the quality of health higher education, developing innovative research, and enhancing the institution’s contribution to addressing community needs.
In addition to participating in the seminar, the program included a visit to the Autism Study Center at Zhejiang Normal University’s Hangzhou campus. The visit provided an opportunity to broaden perspectives on the development of specialized study centers, educational approaches and support for individuals with autism, as well as potential collaborative programs addressing the needs of children, families, and communities.
This activity opens opportunities to explore cooperation in education through knowledge exchange and the development of lecturers’ and students’ competencies; in research through collaborative studies and the exchange of scientific information; and in community service through educational initiatives, community empowerment, and needs-based interventions. These opportunities are expected to be developed in accordance with the respective institutions’ expertise and priorities.
For Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang, strengthening international collaboration is not solely about expanding networks but also about establishing concrete and sustainable follow-up initiatives. Partnerships among higher education institutions are expected to generate joint programs that improve the quality of the three pillars of higher education, encourage innovation, and strengthen the role of universities in advancing health development and community well-being.
Prof. Dr. Runjati, Bdn., M.Mid.’s participation, including the honor of representing the participants at the seminar’s opening ceremony, demonstrates Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang’s contribution to the international academic community. This occasion is expected to lay the groundwork for broader cooperation with Zhejiang Normal University and other partner institutions.
Through this initiative, Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang continues to strengthen its commitment to building global academic networks, improving educational quality, developing innovative research, and expanding the impact of community service. These efforts support the institution’s vision of becoming an innovative health higher education institution that produces excellent health professionals and achieves international recognition by 2044.