The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Yogyakarta State University (FMIPA UNY), once again demonstrated its commitment to providing high-quality, technology-based education. This time, FMIPA UNY established a strategic partnership with the leading Japanese technology company, Casio Singapore Co. Ltd. (Jakarta Representative Office), through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Implementation Agreement (IA) on Friday (July 25, 2025).

The collaboration focuses on enhancing the teaching and learning of mathematics and science through the use of scientific calculators and other educational technologies from Casio. This partnership not only supports the teaching and learning process but also opens opportunities for training lecturers and students in the use of the latest technologies in education and science.

Vice Dean for Planning, Finance, and Resources FMIPA UNY, Prof. Dr. Tien Aminatun, M.Si., warmly welcomed the collaboration.

“We greatly appreciate the collaboration between FMIPA UNY and Casio in supporting fields such as statistics and other sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics,” said Prof. Tien in her remarks. “There are also funds from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology to support research and patented products, which will further strengthen this cooperation,” she added.

From Casio, the event was attended by Arif Wicaksono (Business Relation Manager), Mr. Yokisima (Education Division Representative), and Rifqi Irawan (Education Executive, Casio).

Rifqi Irawan emphasized the many benefits of the collaboration between Casio and FMIPA UNY.

“We aim to align what we have with the curriculum so that it matches both our goals and the educational objectives in Indonesia. We need constructive and technical input to make this collaboration meaningful,” he said.

Casio explained that they have conducted training sessions for high school and vocational school teachers on the use of scientific calculators. Increasing awareness and skills in using such tools can help both teachers and students optimize learning. From 2018 to 2023, Casio has gathered extensive insights and conducted various training programs to improve teachers’ understanding of scientific calculators.

“We call this program Bapuhan, where Casio prioritizes curriculum alignment in each country and supports educational goals in accordance with national visions and missions,” Rifqi added.

Casio has also promoted deep learning, literacy and numeracy enhancement, and AI-based learning through three main pillars: capacity building, curriculum innovation, and consultative partnerships. Research and training are implemented under these three pillars.

Casio expressed its readiness to collaborate with FMIPA UNY by organizing training sessions for lecturers on the use of scientific calculators to support learning in physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

Additionally, Casio proposed cooperation in developing instructional modules to address teachers’ lack of reference materials—particularly those involving real-world problems and HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) questions.

“When we can develop modules or worksheets based on deep learning, it will be a great help for teachers,” Rifqi added.

The event continued with in-depth discussions on potential joint programs between FMIPA UNY and Casio. The discussion resulted in several agreements, including student internships at Casio, training for lecturers on the use of scientific calculators, deep learning development, and expanding collaboration to the field of biology. FMIPA UNY will follow up by identifying IA needs based on each study program’s requirements. The event concluded with a symbolic signing of the Implementation Agreement by both parties.

It is hoped that this collaboration will continue to grow across various areas—research, education, and training—to support the advancement of the university through partnerships with industry.

With the synergy between FMIPA UNY and Casio, an innovative and modern educational ecosystem is expected to emerge—one that can meet the challenges of the times, particularly in the fields of science and mathematics. (ratna/witono)