The USK Department of Physics Welcomes Visit from the Deputy Dean for Fundamental and Continuing Education Center UMT

The Physics Department of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) was honored to have a visit from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) this week to discuss potential future collaborations aimed at enhancing climate change education. This visit marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to address global climate challenges through academic partnership and research.

During the visit, both universities engaged in fruitful discussions on how to effectively integrate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 13 (Climate Action) into their future research. The primary focus was on developing joint initiatives that would advance climate change education and foster greater awareness and action among students and the wider community.

Associate Professor Dr. Azza Jauhar Ahmad Tajuddin, the Deputy Dean for the Centre of Fundamental and Continuing Education, UMT, emphasized the importance of cross-border academic cooperation in tackling climate change. “By working together, we can pool our resources and expertise to create impactful educational programs that empower the next generation to make a difference,” she stated.

Representatives from USK’s Physics Department, the Head of the Department Dr. Saumi Syahreza, and also as head of the Hydrometeorological Disaster and Climate Change Division of TDMRC USK shared insights into their current research and disaster education program related to climate science and hydrometeorological disaster. Dr. Saumi Syahreza, M.Si,  highlighted the potential for collaborative projects that leverage the strengths of both institutions. “Our department is excited about the prospect of partnering with UMT. By combining our research capabilities, we can develop comprehensive educational strategies that address the urgent need for climate action,” he remarked.

The relationship made by Rocky Harisman Saputra, S.Pd., M.Pd., M.M., PhD (C) known as Mr. Rocky Aceh, is a Ph.D student in Applied Linguistics at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu who is an alumnus of English Education Department at USK, which acts as a bridge between USK and UMT had been very fruitful. Mr Rocky Aceh is currently conducting his PhD research on Climate Change Education at 4 universities in Banda Aceh City, Aceh, Indonesia.

The exchange of ideas during the visit covered a range of topics, including the development of joint research projects, exchange programs for students and faculty, and the creation of innovative curriculum modules focused on climate change. Both parties are strongly committed to pursuing these initiatives and exploring funding opportunities to support their implementation.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the agreement to form a joint working group that will oversee the planning and execution of the proposed collaborations. This group will be tasked with identifying specific areas of mutual interest, developing detailed project proposals, and ensuring that the initiatives align with the broader goals of SDG4 and SDG13.

The visit from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu has laid a strong foundation for a partnership that promises to significantly contribute to climate change education. Both UMT and Physics USK are optimistic about the potential impact of their collaborative efforts and are eager to embark on this important journey together.