The FST UNAIR–PKNU collaboration marks a strategic step toward strengthening international research partnerships. On June 24, 2026, the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), welcomed a delegation from Pukyong National University (PKNU), South Korea. In addition to reinforcing academic ties, the meeting created new opportunities for joint research, student exchange programs, and environmental innovation. As a result, the event became an important milestone for both institutions in expanding their global academic network.
The meeting took place at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga. Prof. Dr. Fatmawati, M.Si., officially opened the event. Afterwards, Prof. Mochamad Zakki Fahmi, M.Si., Ph.D., together with representatives from the Department of Environmental Engineering, welcomed the PKNU delegation. Meanwhile, the delegation was led by Professor Kyunghoi Kim, Ph.D., accompanied by Assistant Professor Jong-oh Kim. Through this meeting, both universities reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable international collaboration.
FST UNAIR–PKNU Collaboration in International Research
The primary agenda focused on collaborative research to enhance primary productivity through renewable energy derived from contaminated coastal sediments. Furthermore, both institutions discussed future research initiatives aimed at delivering tangible environmental and societal benefits.
Following the discussion, the Department of Environmental Engineering, FST UNAIR, and Pukyong National University signed an Implementation Agreement (IA). Nur Indradewi Oktavitri, Ph.D., represented FST UNAIR, while Professor Kyunghoi Kim, Ph.D., signed on behalf of PKNU. This agreement further expands the scope of academic collaboration between the two universities.
Moreover, the FST UNAIR–PKNU collaboration includes student exchange programs, faculty exchanges, and joint research initiatives. Consequently, both students and academic staff will gain broader opportunities to strengthen their expertise through international academic experiences.
FST UNAIR–PKNU Collaboration Supports the SDGs
In addition to the IA signing ceremony, lecturers from the Department of Environmental Engineering presented several innovative research projects. Dr. Nurina Fitriani, S.T., together with Nur Indradewi Oktavitri, Ph.D., introduced a range of ongoing research developments. Subsequently, Danar Arifka Rahman, S.T., M.T., presented the profile of the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga, to the visiting delegation.
On the other hand, the FST UNAIR–PKNU collaboration also contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The academic exchange program supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting international learning opportunities. In addition, collaborative research advances SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through scientific innovation and technological development. Furthermore, this international partnership strengthens SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering long-term global cooperation.
PKNU also involves the Yeongnam Sea Grant Center as an interdisciplinary research partner. Consequently, both institutions can develop collaborative internship programs, climate change research, and environmental management initiatives. Ultimately, this collaboration is expected to generate innovative solutions that benefit society while reinforcing FST UNAIR’s position within the global research community.