Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), through the International Office (IO), is currently hosting the UNHAS–Kanazawa University (UNHAS KU) Summer Program from 31 August to 13 September 2025. The program carries the theme Integrating Geodiversity, Biodiversity, and Cultural Heritage and takes place across several regions in South Sulawesi, including Makassar, Maros, Bantaeng, and Bulukumba.
The opening ceremony was held on Monday, 1 September 2025, at the 3rd Floor of the Institute of Research and Community Services (LP2M), UNHAS. It was officially opened by Prof. Jamaluddin Jompa (Rector of UNHAS) and attended by Prof. Sumangan Baja (UNHAS Secretary), Prof. Suharman Hamzah (LP2M Secretary), facilitators, and the IO Squad Team. The facilitators involved are experts in geodiversity, biodiversity, and cultural heritage, providing students with comprehensive academic and cultural perspectives.
The first part of the program consisted of six-day classroom sessions at UNHAS Tamalanrea Campus, complemented by field trips to Leang-Leang and Rammang-Rammang in Maros Regency. Participants also experienced a Phinisi boat dinner cruise around Makassar Strait, allowing them to enjoy the cultural and maritime heritage of South Sulawesi. The program involved 8 participants from Kanazawa University and 12 from UNHAS, encouraging meaningful cross-cultural interactions.
Following the classroom and field activities in Makassar and Maros, the group continued their journey to Bantaeng Regency. Here, students joined a homestay program with local families, providing them with the opportunity to learn about intercultural values and daily life in South Sulawesi. Activities included school and public health facility visits, as well as observations of seaweed and seagrass cultivation—important aspects of local livelihoods.
The program will conclude in Bulukumba Regency, where participants will join the closing ceremony before returning home. Before their departure, they will enjoy the renowned white sandy beaches of Bira, a fitting finale to their immersive academic and cultural journey.
As a pilot project between UNHAS and Kanazawa University, the Summer Program is expected to continue and expand in the coming years. With positive impressions and valuable experiences, KU students are likely to encourage more of their peers to take part in future programs in Indonesia, particularly in Makassar, strengthening academic cooperation and cultural understanding between the two universities.
Source: International Office of UNHAS
