Building Bridges Through Education: Reflections from EMPM Student Seminar at IPB University

On 15 May 2025, DAAD Indonesia participated in the EU Mobility Programme for Myanmar (EMPM) Student Seminar at IPB University. The event formed part of DAAD’s centenary celebrations, bringing together students, scholars and partners who believe in the transformative power of education, even in the face of adversity.

EMPM, implemented jointly by DAAD, Campus France, and Nuffic with funding from the European Union, offers students from Myanmar a diverse range of academic opportunities. These include top-up degrees (both physical and virtual), internships (both physical and virtual), micro-credentials, and short-term mobility experiences in Europe. Each initiative is designed to ensure access to higher education, promote academic continuity, and foster regional and international academic cooperation.

The seminar focused on the stories of the students. Meeting them in person, hearing about their experiences, and witnessing their courage was profoundly moving. These young individuals are pursuing an education not only as a personal goal but also as a means of contributing to their communities and building a more hopeful future. Three EMPM awardees shared how their academic journeys had boosted their confidence, broadened their horizons and empowered them to grow, both personally and professionally.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Iskandar Z. Siregar and the team at IPB University for their warm welcome and commitment to hosting this significant event. It was an honour to open the seminar alongside Prof. Siregar, and to hear the valuable insights of Mr Stefan Hase-Bergen (DAAD) and Ms Puji Mudiana (IPB University).

EMPM is more than just a scholarship programme—it serves as a bridge, linking students to opportunities, communities to knowledge, and regions to a shared commitment to a brighter future. Alongside our consortium partners, Campus France and Nuffic, DAAD is proud to support a strong and growing alumni network that continues to thrive beyond the classroom.

The long-standing partnership between DAAD and IPB University exemplifies the profound importance of international cooperation. It reminds us that education has the power to cultivate resilience, foster understanding, and drive progress across borders and generations.

As we celebrate 100 years of DAAD, we look forward to continuing our mission of opening doors, supporting students and building a future shaped by knowledge, connection and shared humanity.