Five graduate students specializing in fisheries and marine sciences from various universities in Indonesia participated in the Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) program held in South Korea from June 11–16, 2024. The program, funded by Official Development Assistance (ODA) from KIOTEC and initiated by the Korea-Indonesia Marine Technology Cooperation Research Center (MTCRC), aimed to broaden participants’ understanding of maritime governance. The student delegation came from UGM, UNDIP, UNPATTI, ITB, and UNHAS, representing Indonesia alongside stakeholders from the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves), Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), BMKG, Bappenas, and other institutions. The representative from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM was Nicholas Sidharta, a student of the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science.
During the program, participants engaged in a series of professional and cultural activities. One of the highlights was the signing of the IA ODA KIOTEC cooperation agreement at Park Hyatt Busan, attended by prominent officials from both Indonesia and South Korea. The delegation also visited leading institutions such as the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), the National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), and the PKNU training facilities. Additionally, they explored Korea’s history and culture through visits to landmarks like the UN Peace Museum, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and Haedong Yonggung Temple.
Beyond the professional agenda, the program offered participants memorable cultural experiences. They explored the cities of Busan, Seoul, and Incheon, visiting popular destinations such as Lotte World Mall, Seoul Sky Tower, and Songdo Hanok Village. These activities not only enriched their understanding of maritime affairs but also strengthened cultural ties between Indonesia and South Korea. The ECOP program proved to be a valuable opportunity for Indonesian students to learn and network on an international level. Moreover, this initiative supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education – by providing students with access to quality educational experiences through professional training, learning at leading maritime institutions, and participation in international forums. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Writers: Nicholas Sidharta, Galuh Wulanuari
Editors: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han), Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.
