The Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) has reaffirmed their commitment to expanding their international academic network through student’s participation in the Summer Medical Exchange Program 2026, hosted by Niigata University School of Medicine in Japan. Held from 22 – 31 July, 2026, the program brought together medical students from various institutions across Asia and Europe to share experiences, broaden their academic horizons, and foster global professional networks.
Representing the Faculty of Medicine, six undergraduate medical students participated in this event ; Aisha Mutiara Syahrul, Andi Athifah Zhafirah Gunawan, Aliyyah Dewi Ramadhani, Muhammad Reyhan Azis, Muhammad Mulky Maraya and Nadinda Ora Tambuku Parandu.
Throughout the program, students gained hands-on learning opportunities through clinical observations and academic activities across specialized departments tailored to their clinical interests. These included the Department of Neurosurgery, Microscopic Anatomy, Virology, Developmental Physiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emergency Medicine, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Diseases as well as Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.
In addition to acquiring direct insight into Japan’s medical education framework and healthcare system, the participants engaged in scientific discussions, observed clinical practices and interacted with international peers. The experience significantly enhanced their cross-cultural competence, professional communication skills, and collaborative abilities within a global academic setting. This international exchange aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being by strengthening medical education and clinical exposure to foster better future healthcare delivery. It also advances SDG 4: Quality Education through international academic mobility and cross-cultural skill development, while supporting SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by solidifying institutional ties between universities in Indonesia and Japan.
The participation of medical students in the Summer Medical Exchange Program 2026 reflects the ongoing execution of a long-standing partnership between the Faculty of Medicine, UNHAS, and Niigata University School of Medicine. This initiative continues to build student academic capacity while preparing graduates who possess global perspectives, professional competence, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to international medical science and patient care.
