Yogyakarta, 30 September 2025–The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIPOL) Universitas Gadjah Mada hosted the Global Humanities Alliance (GHA) Steering Committee Meeting, an important forum that marked the launch of a series of international cooperation activities.
One of the main agendas of this meeting was the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) involving eight GHA member universities from various countries. The signing was an important milestone in strengthening global collaboration networks in the humanities and social sciences.
The first MoU was related to strengthening the GHA and was signed by four representatives of member universities, namely Angelia Wilson (University of Manchester), Danang Seri Hadmoko (Universitas Gadjah Mada), Jennifer Balint (University of Melbourne), and Mariana Mota Prado (University of Toronto). This MoU serves as a joint guideline for GHA to strengthen its commitment to international collaboration in the humanities and social sciences through a shared understanding of the alliance’s vision, mission, themes, objectives, and governance.
In addition, an Amendment to the Student Exchange Agreement was signed between Universitas Gadjah Mada and the University of Melbourne. This document was signed directly by Dr. Danang Seri Hadmoko as Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Cooperation at Universitas Gadjah Mada and Prof. Jennifer Balint from the University of Melbourne, as a form of expanding the existing student exchange cooperation.
Under the MoU, all GHA member universities share a mission to enhance the role and socio-political impact of the humanities and social sciences. The main focus is realized through research and teaching that highlights global issues, integrates diverse world perspectives, and brings together academics and students in critical cross-cultural conversations.
The signing of this MoU affirms a shared belief that by combining the unique strengths and advantages of each institution, GHA is capable of responding to global challenges while demonstrating the tangible contributions of the humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts to the world.
Going forward, GHA is committed to expanding its network and partnerships, opening up new opportunities for collaboration, and inviting other universities to join. The momentum at FISIPOL UGM is also an important stepping stone for more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful global cooperation.
The eight GHA member universities participating in this meeting are:
- Ashoka University (India)
- Mahidol University (Thailand)
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Chile)
- Universitas Gadjah Mada (Indonesia)
- University of Manchester (United Kingdom)
- University of Melbourne (Australia)
- University of Nairobi (Kenya)
- University of Toronto (Canada)