BDLP Unhas Conducts VAOSE 3 Program in Japan, Expanding Networks and International Experience

Japan, 9–19 November 2025 — The Study Program of Marine and Coastal Aquaculture (BDLP), Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Hasanuddin, successfully carried out the Vocational Aquaculture Outbound Student Exchange (VAOSE) 3 program in Japan. This annual program is designed to broaden the international perspective of lecturers and academic staff, while strengthening academic and cultural collaboration with institutions in developed countries.

VAOSE 3 was attended by four participants from BDLP: Dr. Dian Novita Sari, A.Md., S.Pi., M.Si, Ahmad Sajjad, S.Kel., M.Si, Muh. Fatratullah Muhsin, S.Pi., M.Sc, and Nunun Ainun Putri Sari Banun Kaliky, S.Si., M.Si. Over the course of 11 days, participants engaged in a series of academic and cultural activities focused on enhancing global competence and gaining deeper insights into Japan’s aquaculture industry.

The main academic agenda of the program was a general lecture at Hiroshima University, delivered by Prof. Kazuhiko Koike, PhD, Vice President of Hiroshima University, as well as Nurhikmah Tenripada, M.Sc, an Indonesian doctoral student at Hiroshima University. Participants received presentations on advancements in aquaculture research, innovations in fisheries technology, and potential avenues for academic collaboration between Indonesia and Japan.

In addition to the academic sessions, participants also took part in various cultural exchange activities, which are a hallmark of the VAOSE program. These activities included visits to the Atomic Bomb Dome Hiroshima, Miyajima Island, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and several historical sites and tourist destinations in Okayama and Kyoto. Through these visits, participants gained a deeper understanding of Japanese cultural values, work ethic, and societal characteristics that have contributed to the nation’s progress.

VAOSE 3 reaffirms BDLP Unhas’ commitment to providing internationally oriented learning experiences and expanding academic collaboration networks. The program is expected to further strengthen the role of vocational education in preparing highly competent graduates who are ready to face global challenges in the marine and fisheries sector.