FIB Unhas – The Department of West Asian Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Hasanuddin (FIB Unhas), held a Stadium Generale (Public Lecture) to discuss the strengthening of international cooperation in the academic and cultural fields. This event featured the keynote speaker, the Rector (President) of Al-Mustafa International University from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Prof. Dr. Ali Abbasi.
The public lecture, which took place solemnly in the FIB Unhas Senate Room on Wednesday (5/11/2025) afternoon, was centered on the theme “The Strategic Role of Universities in Strengthening Iran-Indonesia’s Educational, Research, and Cultural Networks Amidst the Current of Digital Transformation.” This theme was raised in response to the increasingly crucial role of technology in bridging collaboration between nations. Amidst the current of disruption, universities are expected not only to be educational institutions but also guardians and developers of cultural networks.
The Dean of FIB Unhas, Prof. Dr. Andi Muhammad Akhmar, S.S., M.Hum., stated in his welcome speech that the presence of the Rector of Al-Mustafa was an important momentum for FIB Unhas, especially the Department of West Asian Literature.
“The digital world brings both great challenges and opportunities. Through forums like this, we not only exchange knowledge but also nurture the cultural bridge that has long been established between Indonesia and Iran. This is the essence of humanities studies,” said Prof. Akhmar.
In his presentation, Prof. Dr. Ali Abbasi outlined how universities in both countries can become the main driving force in cultural diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of joint research and student exchange programs to build a more authentic mutual understanding.
“Digital transformation must not erode identity,” explained Prof. Abbasi. “On the contrary, universities must utilize it to strengthen cultural research and education, making it more accessible yet still profound.”
The event, guided by Supratman, S.S., M.A., Ph.D. as the moderator, and also attended by the Head of the Arabic Literature Study Program, Haeruddin, S.S., M.A., proceeded interactively. This activity is expected to be the first step towards more concrete cooperation programs between FIB Unhas and educational institutions in Iran.(*)
