Yogyakarta, August 25^th, 2025 — The Graduate School of Yogyakarta State University (UNY) hosted the leaders of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), Muhammadiyah University of Purwokerto (UMP), for the signing of a Cooperation Agreement (PKS) and a discussion on follow-up collaboration. The main agenda was the signing of the UNY Graduate School–FKIP UMP cooperation agreement, attended by the FKIP UMP delegation consisting of Dr. Elly Hasan Sadeli, M. Pd. (Dean), Feisal Aziez, Ph. D. (Vice Dean I), and Dedy Irawan, M. Pd. (Vice Dean III).

The event opened with remarks from Prof. Dr. Siswantoyo, M.Kes., AIFO., The Director of the UNY Graduate School, who welcomed the delegation, introduced the leadership team and presented the profile of UNY Graduate School programs. Representing UMP, Dr. Elly Hasan Sadeli, an alumnus of UNY (2015), greeted and introduced his colleagues, expressing interest in collaboration, particularly in the field of Educational Sciences. He also noted that many UMP lecturers are eager to pursue further studies at UNY. In the cooperation session, Prof. Siswantoyo highlighted the option of Distance Learning Programs (PJJ), which provide flexibility for lecturers to study without disrupting their professional duties, while also strengthening the alumni network. The discussion also covered implementation mechanisms (mentoring and periodic monitoring) as well as alumni testimonials on the high commitment of supervisors at UNY.

As part of benchmarking efforts, both parties agreed to focus collaboration on five key areas: (1) structure and curriculum of the Doctoral Program in Education, (2) governance and academic management of Doctoral programs, (3) strengthening faculty, student, and supporting infrastructure resources, (4) strategies for quality improvement and accreditation, and (5) sharing best practices in doctoral program implementation. These points will be translated into joint agendas through technical forums following the agreement signing.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to draw up a detailed work plan, including internal scholarship schemes, study pathways for UMP lecturers, and joint activities (guest lectures, collaborative supervision, and curriculum workshops) as immediate steps in implementing the cooperation agreement. With this signing, UNY Graduate School and FKIP UMP reaffirm their synergy in strengthening an adaptive and competitive higher education ecosystem in teacher education.