Surabaya – The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine (FPK) Universitas Airlangga reaffirmed its commitment to expanding international partnerships through a strategic meeting with the Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, United Kingdom, on Tuesday (August 5, 2026). The FPK Universitas Airlangga and University of Plymouth strategic meeting marked the beginning of a promising collaboration in education, research, and community development, strengthening both institutions’ shared commitment to addressing global challenges in fisheries and marine sciences.
Held virtually, the meeting brought together the Vice Dean III and the Faculty Ambassador of FPK Universitas Airlangga as representatives of the faculty. The University of Plymouth was represented by Professor Abigail McQuatters-Gollop, who introduced the School of Biological and Marine Sciences and discussed various opportunities for academic collaboration between the two institutions.
Expanding International Academic Partnerships
The discussion began with presentations highlighting the academic strengths of each institution. Representatives from FPK Universitas Airlangga introduced the faculty’s profile, internationally accredited study programs, and the diverse research activities conducted across its departments. During the meeting, Annur Ahadi Abdillah also presented the FPK Universitas Airlangga Summer Course, an annual program that welcomes international students to explore Indonesia’s fisheries and marine resources while experiencing its academic environment.
The Summer Course attracted considerable interest from the University of Plymouth, as it offers valuable opportunities to strengthen international academic mobility. Beyond student exchanges, the program also has the potential to support collaborative teaching, joint research, and community engagement initiatives.
“Through international partnerships, we hope to establish mutually beneficial collaborations in education, research, and the capacity development of both students and academic staff,” said Annur Ahadi Abdillah.
Professor Abigail McQuatters-Gollop subsequently introduced the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, outlining its academic programs, research priorities, and educational activities. She also shared that the University of Plymouth has previously sent students to Indonesia to participate in programs related to marine conservation, providing a strong foundation for expanding collaboration with FPK Universitas Airlangga in the future.
Strengthening Research Collaboration for Global Marine Challenges
In addition to academic mobility, both institutions discussed opportunities for collaborative research that leverages Indonesia’s exceptional marine biodiversity as a natural laboratory. As one of the world’s largest archipelagic nations, Indonesia offers extensive research opportunities in marine ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable fisheries management.
The discussion explored several potential collaborative initiatives, including joint research projects, community development programs, and academic activities involving faculty members and students from both universities. These collaborations are expected to generate innovative solutions that contribute not only to scientific advancement but also to the sustainable management of marine resources.
“Indonesia possesses extraordinary marine resources. This creates significant opportunities for both institutions to develop impactful collaborations in research and education on a global scale,” said Professor Abigail McQuatters-Gollop.
The partnership reflects FPK Universitas Airlangga’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by strengthening research and innovation in marine sciences, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international academic partnerships that promote collaborative education, research, and community engagement for broader societal impact.
Author: Farrel Bhanu Mahardhika
Editor: Terry Previo Avianto
