Surakarta, 27 January 2026 — The Directorate of Reputation, Partnership, and International Affairs (DRKUI) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) held a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to explore industry collaboration opportunities and career pathways in Japan. The initiative represents a strategic step in strengthening international industry networks while expanding global career access for UMS students and alumni.
The FGD took place on Tuesday (27/1) in collaboration with Mr. Fujiwara from A La Carte Foods Co., Ltd., Japan. The discussion focused on identifying industry needs, employment opportunities in Japan, and potential long-term partnerships between UMS and international industry partners.
During the session, Mr. Fujiwara expressed his company’s readiness to establish a sustainable and collaborative partnership with UMS.
“We are open to building collaboration with UMS, not merely as an employer–employee relationship, but as a partnership to grow and develop the company together,” said Mr. Fujiwara.
He further emphasized that collaboration with higher education institutions plays a vital role in preparing human resources who are not only technically competent but also equipped with an understanding of international work culture.
Meanwhile, Sidiq Permono Nugroho, S.E., M.M., Head of the Subdirectorate for Industry Partnership Development at DRKUI UMS, highlighted UMS’s role as a bridge between academia and international industry.
“UMS is committed to connecting relevant academic programs with industry partners to provide concrete opportunities for students to work in Japan after graduation. This collaboration is expected to serve as a tangible global career pathway for UMS graduates,” he explained.
Through this FGD, DRKUI UMS explored various collaboration opportunities aligned with global industry demands, while simultaneously strengthening student preparedness to compete in the international job market.
This activity reflects UMS’s commitment to integrating higher education with global industry needs and reinforcing its role in producing adaptive, professional, and globally competitive graduates.
Through this initiative, DRKUI UMS reaffirms its dedication to expanding impactful international collaborations, opening global career opportunities, and supporting UMS students and alumni in pursuing professional careers at the international level, particularly in Japan.
