On August 4, 2025, Architecture Department lecturer at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Odilia Renaningtyas Manifesty, S.T., MA(UD), Ph.D., accepted an invitation from the Department of Architecture, Korea University. This visit was an important part of DTAP UGM’s international agenda aimed at strengthening academic networks, expanding collaboration opportunities, and enriching academic experiences for both faculty members and students at the global level.
During the visit, Dr. Odilia was directly involved in several strategic academic activities. One of them was serving as a thesis examiner for master’s (S2) students in the field of architecture. This examination provided a platform for exchanging academic perspectives across countries, as well as appreciating research conducted by international students.
In addition, she also provided thesis supervision for four international students at the Department of Architecture, Korea University. The topics discussed covered contemporary issues in urban planning and design, ranging from inclusive and sustainable public open spaces to urban resilience focused on cities’ ability to face climate change and socio-economic challenges. Through this supervision, students received direct input grounded in both research and practical experience in Indonesia, complemented by a global perspective.
The visit was also an opportunity for direct discussions with Prof. Lee Gun Won, a senior academic at Korea University, on various potential academic collaborations in the future. Some of the ideas explored included:
- Joint research in architecture and urban planning that integrates local and global issues.
- Joint studio programs in which students from both universities collaborate on cross-country design projects.
- Student and faculty exchange programs to enrich the teaching and learning experience in an international setting.
These discussions marked an important first step toward building long-term academic partnerships expected to benefit both institutions.
The meeting at Korea University was a strategic move by DTAP UGM in expanding its international academic network. This activity not only opened opportunities for collaborative research but also strengthened DTAP UGM’s position within the architecture and urban planning education network in Asia.
Through such collaborations, DTAP UGM demonstrates its commitment to developing academic competencies that align with global developments. This approach is in line with the department’s vision of preparing graduates who are not only competent at the national level but also ready to compete and contribute on the international stage.
