Malang, 22 August 2025 — The Geography Department, Faculty of Social Sciences, Universitas Negeri Malang (FIS UM), strengthened its international academic collaboration by organizing a Guest Lecture featuring a distinguished scholar from The University of Queensland, Australia, Dr. Lorna Hernandez-Santin. The event was also integrated with the Welcoming Ceremony for the 2025/2026 Cohort of New Geography Students.
Held at the FIS UM Auditorium, the guest lecture carried the theme:
“Innovation and Sustainability in Contemporary Geography Research”, exploring recent advances in geographic studies, including mapping technologies, environmental sustainability, and the integration of spatial science in regional development.
During her presentation, Dr. Lorna Hernandez-Santin highlighted the importance of global collaboration in addressing increasingly complex environmental challenges. She shared insights into geospatial research methods commonly used in Australia and discussed potential avenues for research partnerships between UM and The University of Queensland.
The event was officially opened by the Head of the Geography Department, who emphasized that this activity not only enriches students’ academic perspectives but also represents a strategic step towards achieving a world-class university vision.
“International collaborations such as this are expected to inspire our students to think globally and act locally, in line with the department’s mission to develop graduates with strong global competitiveness,” he said.
Welcoming the New Geography Students
The program continued with the New Student Welcoming Session, attended by faculty members and administrative staff. The new students were introduced to the department’s academic system, student organizations, laboratory facilities, and opportunities for developing competencies in environmental geography, spatial science, regional planning, and disaster management.
They were also encouraged to embrace the values of geography and develop strong character, competencies, and multiliteracy as global citizens in the digital era.
Positive Student Engagement
The event received enthusiastic participation from both new and continuing students. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with an international lecturer and gain fresh insights into global trends in geography research. The Geography Department of FIS UM remains committed to fostering international academic engagement and expanding global partnerships to enhance the quality of education and research at Universitas Negeri Malang.
