As an implementation of the initiation of a collaborative activity program between the Engineering and Vocational Faculty, Ganesha University of Education (Undiksha) and Rajamanggala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT), lecturers in the Informatics Engineering Department carry out research activities using an international collaborative research scheme with lecturers in the Department of Mechatronics, RMUTT.

The research entitled “EEG-Based Control for Imagery Motor Signals of Exoskeleton” was led by Dr. I Made Agus Wirawan, S.Kom., M.Cs (Information Engineering Education study program) with research members namely I Gede Mahendra Darmawiguna, S.Kom., M.Sc. (Information Systems study program, Undiksha), and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dechrit Maneetham (Department of Mechatronics, RMUTT). This research was also assisted by lecturers at the Department of Mechatronics, RMUTT, namely Dr. Eng. Padma Nyoman Crisnapati, S.Kom., M.Pd., M.Kom, PhD candidate Yamin Thwe, M.Sc. and 3 students from the Information Systems study program, Undiksha namely Kartina Nikova, Ida Bagus Ketut Sandhisutra, and Desak Putu Eka Komala Dewi.

This research is planned to be carried out for 3 years, where the main focus of research activities in the first year is data acquisition. The first data acquisition was carried out at Undiksha using 23 research subjects, namely Undiksha students. Activities were carried out for 5 days on July, 21st to 25th , 2023.

Researchers also have the opportunity to conduct research visits to RMUTT which have been done from 21 August 2023 to 2 September 2023. the key activities that have taken place during this collaboration as followed:

• The signing of the letter of implementation marked the official beginning of the collaborative research journey between the two esteemed institutions, setting the stage for fruitful cooperation.
• Joint research discussions between the Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha (Undiksha) and Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) teams have been instrumental in fostering a deep understanding of research objectives and methodologies, laying the foundation for successful collaboration.
• The guidance provided to the postgraduate student at RMUTT who is conducting research on an EEG-controlled wheelchair has been invaluable in ensuring the smooth acquisition and pre-processing of data, contributing to the quality and integrity of the ongoing research.
• A meeting with the Vice Dean of Research and Academic Services has successfully conveyed the progress and scope of collaborative research activities. The proposal to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two universities is a testament to the commitment to long-term partnership and collaboration.
• The lecture session on “Trends and Challenges of Electroencephalogram (EEG)” delivered to the Masters and Doctoral students of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering at the Faculty of Technical Education has enriched the academic experience of our students and furthered their understanding of cutting-edge research.
• Engaging discussions with postgraduate students specializing in computer science at the Asian Institute of Technology has facilitated knowledge exchange and synergy among researchers with similar research topics.
• The collaborative research activities have encompassed data acquisition from several students at RMUTT, enhancing the scope and diversity of the research outcomes.
• The drafting of the data acquisition article underscores the commitment to disseminating knowledge and findings to the broader academic community.

The Head of Departments of Mechatronics, RMUTT  expressed his gratitude that the collaborative research (21 August 2023 to 02 September 2023) has yielded significant outcomes that contribute to advancing research in the field of Mechatronics Engineering. Department of Mechatronics extends its heartfelt appreciation to all individuals and teams involved in these activities for their dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit. These efforts not only contribute to the advancement of research but also foster international academic relationships and enrich the academic experiences of their students. We look forward to the continuation of our collaboration and the achievement of further milestones in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

Participation in this collaborative research endeavor is expected to make a significant contribution to the development of science and technology and to strengthen cooperation between Undiksha and RMUTT in achieving various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).