“New culture has always been an interesting thing for me. And I think for you too. So to adapt to a new culture, avoid prejudice or feel discouraged, try to understand.”
UNAIR NEWS – Dozens of international students from more than 11 countries in Asia, Europe and Africa were gathered in Kahuripan 300 Hall, UNAIR Management Office on Friday, February 28, 2020. They were attending theopening of Amerta XII program, to study for one semester at Universitas Airlangga.
Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, M.Si as UNAIR Vice Rector I in her opening remarks warmly welcomed the presence of international students to undergo lectures for the next six months. “Don’t hesitate to ask anything from UNAIR students and staff. We have various academic and non-academic facilities. We invite all of you here not only to learn, but more than that. Are you ready?” said Prof. Nyoman followed by a ‘yes’ from the event participants.
Meanwhile, the program then continued with Cross Cultural Communication presentation by Mag. Dr. Stefan Kutzenberger from Faculty of Philology and Culture, University of Vienna, Austria. ” New culture has always been an interesting thing for me. And I think for you too. So to adapt to a new culture, avoid prejudice or feel discouraged, try to understand. Then you will find a new world that is truly extraordinary, “said Dr. Stefan in his presentation.
In the event, some Airlangga Development Scholarship (ADS) students and Developing Countries Partnership (KNB) students were also present to share some motivational speech and stories about their college experience at UNAIR. “First time experience in Indonesia was not easy. Far from home, parents, there is a language barrier. But then try to make friends with the local community, things will get easier. Indonesia and UNAIR are now my second home, “said the student from Zimbabwe.
On the other hand, Silas from Nigeria, an ADS student gave tips and shared stories. Silas, who has studied at UNAIR since 2017, revealed that he discovered a new world and culture in Indonesia. So, get to know and be close to the world, Silas encouraged international students to smile more. “Javanese are kind and sweet people,” Silas said followed by laughter from other participants.
In Amerta, there is a credit transfer system which can later be used at their original university after the program ends. Dian Ekowati, SE, M.Si, M.AppCom (OrgCh)., Ph.D revealed that the event was one of UNAIR’s steps to contribute to the global academic community. “Education is something that can break boundaries between countries. Introducing UNAIR to the world, and improving human resources not only of Indonesia, but also the world. ” said the Head of Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE).
Amerta XII welcomed 42 foreign students from Malaysia, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Brunei Darussalam, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Gambia, and Tanzania to various faculties at UNAIR. (*)
Author: Intang Arifia
Editor: Feri Fenoria Rifa’i
