Yogyakarta, April 16, 2026 – The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DTPB), Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FTP UGM), welcomed an academic visit from Prof. Bart Nicolai, a professor specializing in mechatronics, biostatistics, and sensors from KU Leuven, Belgium.
The visit of Prof. Bart Nicolai forms part of DTPB FTP UGM’s efforts to strengthen international collaboration, particularly in advancing research and education in agricultural and biosystems engineering.
Official Reception at DTPB FTP UGM
During his visit to UGM, Prof. Bart Nicolai was welcomed by the Head of Department, Dr. Arifin Dwi Saputro; Head of the Doctoral Program in Agricultural Engineering, Dr. Rudiati Evi Masithoh; Head of the TPP Laboratory, Dr. Devi Yuni Susanti; Head of the Environmental and Agricultural Buildings Engineering Laboratory, Joko Nugroho Wahyu Kariyadi, Ph.D.; and Bayu Nugraha, Ph.D.
The meeting was conducted in a constructive academic atmosphere, providing a platform for both institutions to introduce their profiles and areas of expertise.
Discussion Focus: Postharvest Technology and Joint Supervision
During the visit, both parties discussed several strategic topics, including an overview of DTPB FTP UGM and its research focus, as well as a presentation of the Biosystems Engineering Department at KU Leuven.
The discussion also explored opportunities for collaboration in postharvest technology, particularly through joint research initiatives and joint supervision schemes for doctoral students.
This collaboration is expected to strengthen research capacity, enhance the quality of scientific publications, and expand academic exchange opportunities between the two institutions.
Advancing Internationalization of DTPB FTP UGM
The visit of Prof. Bart Nicolai represents part of DTPB FTP UGM’s internationalization strategy to increase global exposure and expand its academic network.
Through collaboration with leading institutions such as KU Leuven, DTPB FTP UGM aims to foster research partnerships addressing global challenges in agriculture and biosystems engineering.
This initiative also aligns with efforts to improve the quality of higher education through international collaboration and to strengthen the institution’s global standing.
