The ability to adapt within an international environment has become one of the most sought-after competencies for university graduates in the global era. Mindful of this, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta continues to strengthen its internationalization through various forms of academic collaboration that provide students with global learning experiences. One such initiative was realized by the Arabic Language Education Study Program (PBA) of the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Education, through the International School Orientation Program (PLP) at Thamavitya Mulniti School, Yala, Thailand.

After running for three weeks, the program was officially closed on Monday (29/6/2026). The closing ceremony marked the conclusion of an international learning journey that gave students direct experience teaching at one of the largest Islamic schools in Thailand, while sharpening their capacity to adapt to a different educational system, culture, and student profile in a cross-national environment.

Throughout the International PLP, six students (Muhammad Seza Alkindy, Nurul Laela Apriliani, Zakia Fatma Tsabita, Fadhilla Hanum Khairunnisa, Nindya Suci Rahayu, and Femi Shofa Khairani) taught Arabic at Thamavitya Mulniti School. They not only applied the pedagogical competencies acquired during their studies but also honed their ability to adapt to another country's educational system, tailor their teaching strategies to the characteristics of their students, build cross-cultural communication, and understand the practice of Islamic education in an international context.

Beyond fulfilling their teaching duties, the students also engaged intensively with the school environment and the surrounding community, gaining familiarity with Thai culture and social life, an experience that enriched their learning in a holistic sense. For aspiring educators, such an experience provides vital preparation in building cultural sensitivity, communication skills, and the adaptability that is increasingly essential amid the dynamics of global education.

The contributions of the UIN Sunan Kalijaga students were warmly appreciated by Thamavitya Mulniti School. The school noted that the students had not only performed their duties as student teachers capably, but had also demonstrated discipline, ease of adaptation, and the ability to serve as role models for their pupils throughout the program.

“The PLP students here have been excellent; they have been a model for the children. Throughout the program there were no significant obstacles, and we are very pleased with this year's PLP,” said Ustaz Abdurrahman.

The same appreciation was expressed by the Head of Public Relations at Thamavitya Mulniti School, Ustaz Kuding, who noted that this year's PLP had run very well and expressed hope that it would mark the beginning of an ever-closer academic relationship between the two institutions.

“We hope that after you graduate, if the opportunity arises, you will be able to return and teach here. You have carried out your PLP very well,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of all participants, the student group leader, Muhammad Seza Alkindy, conveyed that the opportunity to learn in Thailand had been a richly rewarding experience that deepened their competence as aspiring teachers.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn directly at Thamavitya Mulniti School. Thank you for the collaboration, guidance, and warmth extended to all PLP students throughout this program. This experience has been an invaluable lesson for all of us,” he said.

For UIN Sunan Kalijaga, international experiences such as this form part of a learning strategy that prepares students for an increasingly interconnected world. Through the experience of teaching in a multicultural environment, students develop not only academic and professional competencies, but also the capacity for adaptability, collaboration, and cross-cultural understanding, qualities that are essential for graduates of a globally reputed university.

Guided by the spirit of Khoirunnas Anfa'uhum Linnas, the best of people is those most beneficial to others, the International PLP not only enriched the students' learning experience as aspiring educators but also strengthened the academic collaboration between UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta and Thamavitya Mulniti School, Thailand.

The six International PLP participants are scheduled to return to Indonesia on Friday (3/7/2026), bringing home a cross-national learning experience that will serve as invaluable preparation for their growth as adaptive, professional, and globally minded educators. (humassk)