IO – UPN “Veteran” Jawa Timur (UPNVJT) officially welcomed 27 new international students from Timor-Leste, Solomon Islands, Malawi, Myanmar, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Thailand, Gambia, Kenya, Pakistan, and Sudan through the highly anticipated SAPA! 2026 program. This two-day orientation program is specifically designed to help international students transition smoothly into academic and social life at the university.
By prioritizing inclusivity and warmth, this event brings the theme “From Strangers to Family, From Different Cultures to One Community”. Ultimately, the program aims to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels accepted and fully prepared to start their new academic journey.
Orientation began on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, with the theme “Welcome Waypoint”. The first day focused heavily on equipping students with essential survival skills. Participants were given an introduction to UPNVJT’s academic system, local food, and campus student organizations. To help them thrive in their new environment, the committee also presented a Local Food Guide, introducing them to the diverse and affordable culinary options around campus.
Understanding that communication is key, the afternoon session titled “Breaking the Language Barrier” introduced basic Bahasa Indonesia for daily communication. This session resonated well with the participants, including Falez, a student from Timor-Leste. Although he is already fluent in Indonesian, he noted that the orientation helped clarify important academic programs.
“The event was incredibly exciting and festive! I also gained a lot of valuable information about the BIPA (Bahasa Indonesia bagi Penutur Asing) program, which is very helpful for us,” Falez shared.
The excitement seamlessly continued into the second day, which was dedicated to celebrating diversity through a cultural parade. International students proudly marched around the campus wearing their stunning national attire. The atmosphere grew even livelier during the “Amazing Race: Indonesia Edition”. Participants joyfully collaborated in classic Indonesian traditional games like Lomba Kelereng (marble race) and balloon relays while still dressed in their cultural outfits, bridging international aesthetics with local fun.
This holistic approach over the two days had a profound impact on the new students. Su Myat San, a student from Myanmar, shared how the event helped her adapt, especially after her initial struggles with local food when she arrived in Indonesia. She noted that the food is so delicious, and she is finally eating much better. She also highlighted that the first day was her best experience because it opened the door to meeting many new friends from different parts of the world.
Despite the packed schedule, SAPA 2026 achieved its main goal. Ivonia, an international student from Timor-Leste, perfectly summarized the collective feeling of the international students. “Even though it was a bit tiring, getting to know new friends made it the perfect first step for us to start our journey at UPN,” she explained. With a strong support system now in place, these global scholars are feeling fully supported, confident, and ready to face their upcoming university lectures.
Created by Tsania Zein Fiashan (IO UPNVJT: Communication and Creative Media Division)
Edited by International Office