The Master’s Program in English Education (MTBI), Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FITK), Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara (UINSU), proudly welcomed an academic visit from Professor Dustin Carrel Cowel of the University of Wisconsin, United States of America, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (WIB). The visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening international academic collaboration, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and expanding community-oriented educational initiatives.
The official visit was hosted by Maslathif Dwi Purnomo, PhD, Head of the Master’s Program in English Education, accompanied by Reflina, M.Pd., Secretary of the Master’s Program in English Education. The event was also attended by Dr. Muhammad Dalimunthe, M.Hum., Vice Dean II of FITK UINSU, along with lecturers, graduate students, and academic staff of the Master’s Program in English Education.
In his welcoming remarks, Maslathif Dwi Purnomo, PhD., emphasized the significance of the visit in expanding global partnerships.
“This visit reflects our strong commitment to internationalization. We believe that academic collaboration with scholars from reputable universities such as the University of Wisconsin will open broader opportunities for joint research, guest lectures, and academic exchange for both faculty members and students,” he stated.
Echoing this perspective, Reflina, M.Pd., highlighted the strategic value of the meeting for the development of the program.
“Engaging directly with international professors provides valuable insights into global academic standards and best practices in English education. This interaction is highly beneficial for improving curriculum quality and fostering cross-cultural academic understanding,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Dr. Muhammad Dalimunthe, M.Hum., Vice Dean II of FITK–UINSU, expressed institutional support for international cooperation.
“FITK fully supports initiatives that enhance global academic engagement. Visits like this not only strengthen institutional reputation but also encourage innovation, professionalism, and international competitiveness within our academic community,” he remarked.
The visit concluded with a focused discussion on potential follow-up initiatives, including joint research projects, guest lectures, international seminars, and future academic exchange programs. Both parties expressed mutual interest in establishing sustainable collaboration between the Master’s Program in English Education, FITK UINSU, and the University of Wisconsin.
This academic visit is expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of the Master’s Program in English Education, FITK UINSU, particularly in achieving its vision of becoming a leading graduate program with strong international engagement and academic excellence.
