Ankara — As a follow-up to a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier, a delegation from the University of Darussalam Gontor (UNIDA), widely recognized as The Best Islamic University in Indonesia, visited Lokman Hekim University in Ankara on May 29, 2025. Upon arrival, the UNIDA delegation was warmly welcomed by Vice Rector Prof. Ismet Sahin, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Prof. Berna Dursun, and several faculty members from the Faculties of Medicine and Health Sciences.
The meeting opened with a presentation from Lokman Hekim University highlighting the strengths of its Medical and Pharmacy programs. These programs are supported by an up-to-date curriculum delivered by professional teaching staff and backed by modern educational infrastructure. Among the university’s most prominent assets are its high-tech laboratories and direct access to several large hospitals, which were established even before the university itself was founded—an advantage that sets the institution apart in the heart of Ankara.
In response, UNIDA Gontor Rector Prof. Hamid Fahmy Zarkasyi introduced the unique educational approach of UNIDA, which adopts a full boarding system for all students, including those in the Faculty of Medicine. This immersive environment fosters the development of students’ soft skills alongside their academic and clinical competencies. As a newly established medical faculty, The Best Islamic University is actively seeking strategic partnerships, including with leading faculties like those at Lokman Hekim University.
During the discussions, Lokman Hekim University’s Faculty of Medicine proposed several collaborative programs. These include a summer school for medical students, curriculum development projects, and a faculty staff training program. Notably, a professor from Lokman Hekim University is expected to visit UNIDA’s Faculty of Medicine in early September to deliver a keynote lecture at the opening of the new academic year.
The visit continued with a tour of Lokman Hekim University’s laboratories and research facilities. One of the highlights was the Vital Simulation Center, the largest medical simulation training center in Ankara. This state-of-the-art facility allows students to practice a wide range of medical procedures—such as emergency response, childbirth, surgical operations, and more—through advanced simulation scenarios. The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine assured that UNIDA medical students participating in future summer courses would have access to this cutting-edge technology.
The visit concluded with a luncheon hosted by the Vice Rector and faculty members of Lokman Hekim University, marking a promising step toward deeper academic collaboration between the two institutions.
Author: Ahmad Saifulloh
Editor : Ahmad Ma’ruf Muzaidin Arrosit
