Contributor: Supriyono | Editor: Dadi Darmadi | Photo: Farish A. Noor
Prof. Farish A. Noor, a political history expert and senior lecturer at the Faculty of Social Sciences at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ (ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ), is currently in the Philippines serving as a Distinguished Guest Professor at the De La Salle University Manila. Known for its excellence and commitment to global collaboration, De La Salle University offers a dynamic environment for Prof. Noor to share his insights while fostering regional academic connections.
Reflecting on his experience, Prof. Noor expressed admiration for the university’s dedication to internationalization. "De La Salle University is, in my opinion, one of the best universities in the region," he stated, highlighting the institution’s commitment to collaborate with other universities. At De La Salle, he has been engaging with scholars from the Departments of History, Politics, and Literature, broadening the scope of interdisciplinary research and dialogue.
Prof. Noor’s activities in the Philippines extend beyond De La Salle University. He has been invited to deliver lectures at prominent institutions, including UP Diliman, Ateneo de Manila, and NU Clark. Through these engagements, he has had the opportunity to connect with academics and students who share his research interests. "It is always a pleasure for me to meet with fellow academics and students," he remarked, emphasizing the enriching exchanges that emerge from such encounters.
In addition to sharing his scholarly expertise, Prof. Noor has taken the opportunity to introduce ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ to the academic community in the Philippines. "During this visit, I have, and will, also speak about ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ and its ambitions," he said. As a relatively young institution, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ is carving a niche in fostering regional partnerships and global engagement. His interactions have revealed a growing interest among Filipino scholars and students in learning about Indonesia and the broader Southeast Asian region.
Currently, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ hosts 16 students from the Philippines studying in various programs at four faculties. Prof. Noor’s visit to the Philippines highlights the importance of regional collaboration in academia. By connecting institutions and individuals, he is not only advancing knowledge but also laying the groundwork for enduring partnerships. His presence in the Philippines serves as a bridge between ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ and the wider academic world, reflecting the university’s vision of becoming a hub for intellectual and cultural exchange in the region.