The Australian Catholic University (ACU) has established a new virtual footprint in the world's most populous Muslim country – a multifaith, multicultural research centre focused on flourishing.
ACU Vice-Chancellor Zlatko Skrbis announced the centre with Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada in Yogyakarta last week, with a goal of conducting collaborative research, student exchange and joint doctoral programs to help more Indonesians flourish.
“Indonesia is home to the most dynamic research and innovation ecosystems in Southeast Asia,” Professor Skrbis said.
"Working with Universitas Gadjah Mada, we're shaping a model that connects academic research to the real challenges facing communities in Australia and Indonesia, from public health to social cohesion.
"This is a research driven, partnership-led initiative between ACU and UGM.
"Its focus is advancing human flourishing, and interfaith relations are a part of that.
"We're intentionally starting small – there is no physical footprint or permanent in-country staff. It's a joint research and education initiative, not a branch campus.
"This initiative reflects the kind of thinking seen in Indonesian government and business circles, that strengthening human flourishing contributes to more resilient communities, a more capable workforce and long-term economic stability. The Centre is designed to connect academic research with these broader social and economic goals.
The Centre is focused on building collaboration between Indonesia and Australia on wellbeing, with scope to bring in additional university partners across the region over time. ACU already has collaborations with Harvard and Baylor Universities in the US.