A historic milestone: The inaugural Industry Advisory Board comes together at Monash University, Indonesia
Group photo of Monash University, Indonesia academics and stakeholders with Industry Advisory Board members
BSD City, Tangerang – On Saturday, 13 December 2025, marked a monumental milestone for Monash University, Indonesia. After months of virtual collaboration, leading experts from business, government, and the not-for-profit sector gathered on campus for the first time to celebrate the official launch of our inaugural Industry Advisory Board. This initiative is a collaboration between the International Alumni Team and the Engagement Team, led by the Learning and Teaching Operations Team, Monash University, Indonesia.
The event began with an inspiring opening speech by Professor Matthew Nicholson, Pro-Vice Chancellor and President of Monash University, Indonesia. Professor Nicholson emphasised the Board’s critical role in ensuring Monash Indonesia remains relevant, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the challenges and opportunities shaping the nation. "Having representatives from industry will not only enrich our academic offerings but also empower students to tackle national challenges and global problems," he shared. This synergy between world-class education and real-world insights is what makes Monash Indonesia unique.
Best practice sharing
The reception featured an insightful session led by Associate Professor Risqi Saputra and Associate Professor Dyah Pitaloka. Both shared success stories of engaging Board members in their programmes through Industry Experience Studio Projects and Capstone Units. Students have benefited immensely from these collaborations, whether through case studies, mentorship, or guest lectures, gaining practical knowledge and confidence to thrive in competitive industries. This is just the beginning of many more impactful partnerships ahead.
Programme breakout discussion
Course Coordinator in discussion with Industry Advisory Board members
One of the most anticipated segments was the breakout discussion. Each Board, chaired by a Monash alum, engaged in lively conversations with course coordinators about short-, medium-, and long-term contributions. Ideas flowed freely, ranging from AI governance and industry-linked research to strategies for enhancing student learning experiences.
Returning to the plenary session, Board Chairs shared their reflections with palpable enthusiasm. Andy Zain, Chair of the Master of Business Innovation Board, expressed optimism: "We want to broaden students’ perspectives on industry trends and innovations, giving them real stories that resonate." Similar sentiments echoed across other programmes, reinforcing a shared commitment to building strong bridges between academia and industry.
The reception concluded with renewed energy and a clear vision: to create meaningful collaborations that prepare Monash University, Indonesia students for the future. With eight Boards now established, each chaired by a Monash alum, the foundation is set for transformative partnerships that will shape education and industry in Indonesia.