Yogyakarta, 26 November 2024 – Representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Japan and the JICA Indonesia Representative Office visited the Integrated Research Laboratory of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM). The purpose of this visit was to directly monitor the utilization of research equipment provided through the collaboration between JICA and Universitas Gadjah Mada.
Accompanied by the DLC Building Management Coordinator, drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., the JICA team conducted an on-site review of the integrated research laboratory located on the 1st and 5th floors of the DLC Building. During the visit, JICA representatives interacted with researchers and laboratory technicians to gain insights into how the research equipment is being used to support dental research.
One of the key aspects of the visit was to evaluate the operational effectiveness of the existing research equipment. The JICA representatives inquired about potential challenges in operating the equipment, maintenance procedures, and the availability of spare parts. This assessment was conducted to ensure that the provided research equipment is utilized optimally and sustainably.
A representative from JICA Japan expressed satisfaction with the progress of the integrated research laboratory at FKG UGM. “The equipment we have provided has been utilized excellently to support high-quality research. We hope that this collaboration will continue and contribute even more to the advancement of scientific knowledge in dentistry,” they stated.
The partnership between JICA and UGM aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 4: Quality Education – enhancing educational quality in developing countries, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – fostering global collaborations. By enhancing research capabilities in dental education, this initiative not only improves educational standards but also drives innovation through clean technology in healthcare.
The integrated research laboratory serves as a vital hub for dental research, enabling both students and lecturers to engage in cutting-edge studies addressing local and global oral health challenges. The equipment provided by JICA has empowered researchers to conduct experiments and studies that were previously constrained by resource limitations.
Additionally, this visit highlights the importance of continuous support and investment in educational infrastructure, particularly in developing countries. By ensuring that research facilities are well-equipped, JICA and UGM are contributing to a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce in the field of dentistry.
As global health challenges continue to rise, international partnerships like this play a crucial role in fostering innovation and developing solutions that can be applied worldwide. The collaboration between JICA and UGM exemplifies how international cooperation can lead to significant advancements in education and research.
The evaluation of research equipment at FKG UGM is a testament to the positive impact of global partnerships in education. Through collaborative efforts, institutions can build a sustainable future for research and development in healthcare, ultimately benefiting communities both locally and globally.
Authors: Ari Jimi Febriyanto, Haqi
