Yogyakarta – The International Office of UIN Sunan Kalijaga held an Orientation Program for International Students on 15-16 October 2025. The event gathered international students from various countries, such as Egypt, Sudan, Palestine, Algiers, Belgium, Malaysia, and Thailand who are pursuing their studies in different disciplines and academic levels at UIN Sunan Kalijaga. The program aimed to help international students adapt smoothly to their academic environment and local culture, while also providing a platform to build cross-cultural friendships and networks.
The orientation took place on the first floor of the Saifuddin Zuhri Building and was officially opened by the Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan, who warmly welcomed all participants. In his remarks, Prof. Noorhaidi expressed his delight at the growing presence of international students on campus. “Your presence enriches our campus not only culturally but also intellectually. It broadens our perspectives and strengthens UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s mission to develop inclusive and globally engaged Islamic studies,” he stated.
The first day began with a session on immigration procedures, presented by Mrs. Aninda Ajisiwi, who explained key regulations for international students and lecturers. She highlighted the importance of adhering to proper visa and administrative processes to ensure that their studies and stay in Indonesia run smoothly and in accordance with national regulations.
Next, participants joined a session on Cultural Adaptation and Social Ethics, presented by Dr. Leonard Epafras and moderated by Bernando J. Sujibto. The session introduced Indonesian cultural values such as friendliness, mutual assistance, and communal living. These insights were expected to help students better understand and adapt to local social dynamics, both on and off campus.
The day concluded with a session by Prof. Fatimah Husein, who offered an overview of Islam in Indonesia, including the roles of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, the two largest Islamic organizations in the country. The discussion encouraged active participation, as international students shared their perspectives and engaged in dialogue about Indonesia’s diverse Islamic landscape.
On the second day, the orientation continued with an outing session at Omah Kecebong, a cultural village on the outskirts of Yogyakarta. Here, the students experienced traditional Javanese culture —from learning about local culinary traditions and trying traditional food, to exploring traditional attire and rural crafts. The activity provided a refreshing and interactive way for students to immerse themselves in Indonesia’s cultural richness and deepen their understanding of Javanese heritage and daily life.
Through this two-day program, UIN Sunan Kalijaga reaffirmed its commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and globally connected university. The orientation not only prepared international students academically but also fostered intercultural understanding, friendship, and appreciation for Indonesia’s vibrant cultural diversity—marking a memorable beginning to their academic journey at UIN Sunan Kalijaga.
(CDCIA- HUMAS UINSUKA)