KISE—On September 11, 2024, UPN “Veteran” East Java hosted a welcoming ceremony for new international students for the 2024/2025 academic year. The event was held in the Arjuno Room of the Rectorate Building and attended by international students from various countries and university officials.
Of 773 applicants for UPN “Veteran” East Java scholarships from several countries this year, only 20 students successfully passed the rigorous selection process. The scholarship recipients come from different educational levels, including undergraduate and graduate programs. The international students represent Gambia, Timor Leste, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, and Yemen.
The event was graced with the attendance of the Rector of UPN “Veteran” East Java, Prof. Dr. Ir. Akhmad Fauzi, MMT., IPU, along with the Vice-Rector 1, Prof. Euis Nurul Hidayah, M.T., Vice Rector 2, Dr. Sukendah, MSc, and Vice Rector 3, Dr. Lukman Arif, M.Si. The head of KISE (International Office and Executive Secretariat), staff, and several coordinators for international student study programs were also present.
The ceremony began with the rendition of the national anthem, Indonesia Raya, and the Mars Bela Negara, followed by a report on the international student enrollment delivered by the Vice Rector 1 for Academic Affairs, Prof. Euis Nurul Hidayah, M.T., Ph.D. In her report, Prof. Euis outlined the scholarship selection process and the academic activities planned for the new students. She also noted that the scholarship program will be evaluated to enhance UPN “Veteran” East Java’s efforts in internationalization. “We will assess and improve the international student scholarship program for 2025 to support the acceleration of UPN “Veteran” Jawa Timur’s internationalization,” she concluded.
Following the academic report, Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Akhmad Fauzi, MMT., IPU, warmly addressed the international students. “We are very proud of your presence here. Your arrival contributes to academic development and enriches our campus’s social and cultural aspects,” said Prof. Fauzi. He encouraged the students to make the most of their time and opportunities while studying in Indonesia, to gain knowledge, experience Indonesian culture, and build networks with fellow students and faculty. He also hoped that international students would master the Indonesian language well to serve as ambassadors of Indonesia in their home countries.
Prof. Fauzi emphasized that UPN “Veteran” East Java is always ready to support international students facing difficulties during their studies. The UPA Language Center will also provide Indonesian language courses to help international students adapt.
The Head of KISE, Mr. Indrawan Jatmika, added that the management of international students will be conducted comprehensively through the Head of the Student Union as the primary communication channel. The presence of the Head of the Student Union is expected to facilitate international students in addressing various issues or challenges they encounter through a single channel, ensuring that their voices and needs are heard and addressed more effectively. Ebrima Jabi, the Head of the Student Union, explained that the organization was established to help international students face various challenges, such as language barriers and health issues. “We aim to be a bridge between international students and the campus, fostering a sense of community among us with diverse backgrounds,” said Ebrima, referring to him and Eva Felantosa as Vice Head of Student Union. He also recommended that the learning process be conducted in Indonesian and English, with course materials provided in English to address the difficulties some students face.
In conclusion, welcoming new international students at UPN “Veteran” East Java for the 2024/2025 academic year marks a hopeful beginning for both the students and the university. With full support from the university leadership and adequate facilities, international students are expected to achieve academic success and enrich their experiences in Indonesia. UPN “Veteran” East Java is committed to continuously improving the support quality and ensuring that every international student feels welcomed and can thrive in the campus environment.
Created by: Davina Salfitrianda (IO UPNVJT Volunteer)
Editor: IO UPNVJT