UNESA delegation promotes student exchange program at international forum in Thailand.
Unesa.ac.id. SURABAYA—The Surabaya State University (UNESA) delegation successfully presented an article entitled "Student Exchange Program to Improve Interreligious Studies among Young Generation" at the 2024 Hatyai Songkhla International Conference which took place on 19 October 2024.
This conference was organized by Rajamanggala Krungthep University of Technology, Thailand, and attended by academics and researchers from various countries. The UNESA delegation team involved in this presentation consisted of Rusly Hidayah, Muhammad Jacky, Supriyanto, and Soni Sulistyanto from the Directorate of Educational Transformation and Learning Technology.
This conference carries the theme "Interreligious Dialogue for Reconciliation and Resilience: Southeast Asia Focus," aims to discuss the role of interfaith dialogue in promoting peace and social resilience amidst diversity.
The UNESA delegation's presentation session was appreciated by participants in the parallel session.
The results of this study provide strong evidence that student exchange programs can significantly increase interfaith understanding among participants. By offering students the opportunity to interact directly with peers from different religious backgrounds.
These programs help break down stereotypes, foster mutual respect, and advance interfaith dialogue. However, the effectiveness of these programs depends on their design and implementation.
Higher education institutions must take a proactive approach to developing exchange programs to maximize their potential in advancing religion and tolerance
This presentation received appreciation from the participants in the parallel session, because student exchange can be carried out by all universities and across religions and across countries. The hope is that student exchange at UNESA can involve more partner universities from various cultural backgrounds.[*]
***Author and photo: UNESA Delegation to Hatyai Songkhla International Conference 2024
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