“When people from different cultures come together with open minds, what emerges is not only the sharing of knowledge but also the discovery of new viewpoints that challenge and enrich our home.”

These were the words of NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo as she addressed participants during the Closing Ceremony and Cultural Farewell of the Faculty, Staff, and Student Exchange Program between NEUST College of Engineering (COE) and Universitas PGRI Semarang (UPGRIS) College of Engineering and Informatics, held on September 11, 2025, at the COE Conference Room, Sumacab Campus.

Building on her message, Dr. Jugo encouraged both institutions to sustain collaboration, stating, “Let us not see this as an end, but as a beginning of more meaningful partnerships in the years to come.”

The ceremony served as the culmination of the 27-day visit of UPGRIS delegates who engaged in academic and cultural exchange activities at NEUST.

As part of the program, the UPGRIS representatives conveyed their appreciation to NEUST, extending thanks for the warm reception and support they received, while also sharing their experiences in the Philippines and the lasting friendships and insights they gained.

Present at the event alongside Dr. Jugo were Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training, Dr. Jean Guillasper, Office of International Affairs Director, Atty. Eric Claudio, College of Engineering Dean, Engr. Jeric Aduna, and College of Architecture Dean, Ar. Gregorio Villaviza Jr., joined by COE faculty members, students, and staff.

Representing UPGRIS were Muhammad Budi Haryono, Lintang Enggartiasto, Ir. Bambang Hadi Kurnayo, Anita Viana, Danu Setiyawan, Anas Asis Wediyarti, and Ghazy Tara Tsaqif.

Strengthening ties between the two universities, the NEUST-UPGRIS partnership, which was formalized in 2022, continues to create opportunities for academic development, collaborative research, and intercultural engagement between the Philippines and Indonesia.

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