Fostering Global Exchange and Enhancing Postgraduate Students’ Learning at Lingnan University and Universitas Gadjah Mada
Faculty members and students from the Master and Doctoral Program in Leadership and Policy Innovation at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) visited Lingnan University (Lingnan) in Hong Kong for a study tour on 14 - 16 January 2025. This tour was designed to foster academic engagement and deepen participants' understanding of policy innovation, social services, and the integration of technology in tackling challenges related to aging populations.
During the visit, Lingnan organised a series of activities aimed at providing insights into the practical aspects of policy innovation and social services. Faculty members from the School of Graduate Studies (GS) introduced the characteristics of three health-related graduate programs: the Master of Science in Health Analytics and Management (HAM), the Master of Social Sciences in Health and Social Services Management (MHSM), and the Master of Science in Smart Ageing and Gerontology (SAG). Prof Amoah Padmore Adusei, Programme Director of the Master of Science in Health Analytics and Management Programme shared how these programs align with societal needs and contribute to talent development. The event marked a significant step towards building stronger academic ties and promoting innovative solutions to global challenges.
A highlight of the visit was a joint lecture for MHSM students, focusing on Indonesian policy and societal development. Prof Agus Heruanto Hadna delivered an engaging lecture on "Innovation in Indonesia”, providing a comprehensive overview of the country's policy landscape. Complementing this, Dr Chloe Siu presented on "New Opportunities in an Ageing Society," offering fresh perspectives on addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by an aging population. This academic engagement facilitated valuable opportunities for mutual learning, stimulated meaningful discussions, and further strengthened the collaboration between the two institutions.
Miss Qichun Liang, a MHSM student, shared her learning experiences from this joint lecture: “After attending the lecture on Indonesian policy innovation, I gained a lot, especially regarding the digital transformation practices implemented in the public service sector, such as the digital ID card project. Through smartphones, the public can conveniently access various public services, including identity verification, education, healthcare, and social assistance. This lecture reminded me of Shenzhen's smart city construction, where the 'i Shenzhen' platform has achieved a high degree of integration of public services, allowing citizens to enjoy one-stop services.”.
Additionally, three students from the HAM and SAG programs conducted a sharing session with the UGM students. Mr Maxwell Arthur and Mr Romen Luo from HAM shared their learning experiences in service practicum prepared by the GS and extracurricular activities, providing UGM students with a glimpse into the practical aspects of their education. Miss Amanda Pan from SAG shared her experiences studying at both Lingnan and the Hong Kong Metropolitan University, discussing subject-related knowledge and the unique teaching and learning environments at the programme.
In addition to student learning, the team conducted a workshop for the UGM faculty members on 14 January, focusing on the concept of an Age-Friendly City (AFC) and capacity building. Dr Oladosu Ayomide Oluwaseyi, the research fellow from GS, introduced the World Health Organization's AFC concept and shared experiences from Lingnan's previous workshops and training sessions in Indonesia and mainland China. The workshop aimed not only to achieve knowledge transfer but also to highlight the impactful research conducted by the LU team. It sought to unlock the potential for joint collaboration in preparing for the aging situation in the Asia-Pacific region.
This study tour not only enhanced the participants' academic understanding but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect between UGM and Lingnan. The event was a significant step towards building stronger academic ties and promoting innovative solutions to global challenges.
