Malang, en.SERU.co.id — Universitas Negeri Malang (UM) welcomed a delegation from Kigyou Koryu Centre (KKC) Japan for a collaborative visit at the Auditorium on the 1st Floor of the Rectorate Building, Graha Rektorat UM, on Tuesday (27 January 2026). The visit reflects UM’s strong commitment to expanding international partnerships and equipping graduates to meet the demands of the global job market.
Prof. Arif Nur Afandi, ST, MT, MIAEng, PhD, Vice Rector IV of UM, emphasized that this commitment is demonstrated through sustained collaborations with international industries, including Japanese companies such as Kigyou Koryu Centre Japan (KKC).
“We have established partnerships with various companies in Indonesia and Japan, particularly in teaching and the development of professional schools. This synergy is key to enhancing the global competitiveness of UM graduates,” said Prof. Arif Nur, as he is fondly known.
According to him, the meeting represents a concrete step toward strengthening international networks, especially in education and global employment. The visit promises cross-border job opportunities in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), by improving competencies and opening global career pathways.
“We hope this visit will provide broader access to international job opportunities for UM students and alumni, while reinforcing the university’s role in preparing work-ready graduates,” he added.
Kazuhisa Sumino, Chief Director of the Cooperation Association at Kigyou Koryu Centre Japan, expressed interest in building long-term collaboration. He praised UM graduates for possessing the competencies and character that align well with the needs of Japanese industries.
“Through this activity, we hope to get to know high-achieving UM students and alumni to explore collaboration opportunities, especially employment in Japan,” he explained.
The KKC delegation outlined the organization’s role in receiving and supporting foreign workers in Japan. KKC ensures that foreign employees comply with Japanese legal regulations while providing comprehensive administrative guidance.
“Our focus is on strengthening human resources, with particular emphasis on mastering the Japanese language as essential preparation for adapting to the international workplace,” Sumino concluded. (rhd)
