SPs IPB University Introduces Indonesian History, Religion, and Culture to International Students
The Graduate School (SPs) of IPB University introduced Indonesian history, religion, and culture to international students from the Developing Country Partnership (KNB) scholarship program in Jakarta (23/11).
The activity was carried out by visiting a number of cultural and historical destinations in Jakarta, including Kota Tua, Istiqlal Mosque, Cathedral Church, and Ragunan Zoo.
The event was attended by 10 students who received KNB scholarships in 2024 from both master and doctoral programs. They came from Yemen, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Egypt, Thailand, Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, Timor Leste, and Ghana.
Coordinator of Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) IPB University, Dr Defina was present in the activity. She said that the purpose of the visit to Kota Tua was for KNB students to recognize the history of the struggle of the Indonesian nation and the history of the birth of Jakarta.
In addition, she wanted to show the international students that the Indonesian people have a fighting spirit in gaining independence.
“Visits to places of worship provide information that Indonesia is a pluralistic nation, tolerant, and friendly to all religions, and show students that Indonesia has six religions recognized by the state, but can live in harmony and peace,” she said.
Dr Defina added, in addition to these places, students were also invited to Ragunan Zoo, which is a place facilitated by the state for all Indonesian people, both residents and students.
“The goal is for KNB students to be able to interact and communicate with people in public places to demonstrate their ability to speak Indonesian,” she added.
Meanwhile, Fatmasari Siregar, SP, MM, Chief of Public Relations, Cooperation, and New Student Admission (PMB) of SPs IPB University said that the introduction of Indonesia through history, religion, and culture is very important.
In addition to being a medium for promoting Indonesia in the international realm, it is also so that foreign nationals from the KNB program can contribute to positive dynamics and cross-cultural interactions between Indonesian academics and international students.
“KNB students in the first year are required to take part in the Indonesian language program as a provision for following education at SPs IPB University. Through this activity, students are expected to be fluent in Indonesian as a provision for following education at SPs IPB University,” she added. (HBL/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
