Unesa.ac.id SURABAYA—Enthusiasm and burning enthusiasm echoed in the Auditorium of the Labschool Rectorate of Surabaya State University (UNESA), when students from elementary, middle and high school levels, along with accompanying teachers, gathered for debriefing ahead of their first Sister School (SS) Program.
This debriefing event which was attended by parents, school principals and UNESA officials was an important moment before the students traveled to a number of partner schools in Thailand and Malaysia.
In the program which will start from 28 February to 5 March 2024, as many as 50 students will visit the Kuala Lumpur Indonesian School (SIKL) and the Nathawi Regional Government , Thailand.
The series of visits also included a trip to Watnamom School in Thailand to deepen their understanding of local culture.
UNESA Labschool Director, Prof. Dr. Sujarwanto, M.Pd, stated that the Sister School program is not just a trip, but an opportunity to involve students in in-depth learning experiences, build international networks, and promote cooperation between countries.
The main objective of this program is helps children become independent and able to socialize with different environments. "This program is part of Labschool's internationalization efforts to provide provisions for students so they are ready to compete internationally. Therefore, take advantage of this program to increase your experience," said Prof. Jar (his nickname).
"This is my first experience of studying abroad. I have done this before but only on holiday with my family. Moreover, this program requires to be independent because they are not accompanied by their parents," said a pair of friends, Diva and Naya, from Labschool Middle School.
An elementary school student named Kenzie also expressed her hopes. "I felt so happy when I first arrived in Malaysia. "And maybe I also enjoy learning talking to others and managing my time," he said.
Chairman of the UNESA Dharma Wanita Association (DWP), Dra. Endah Purnomowati, M.Pd, who also attended the briefing event, shared a dream she had long had. "This is actually my dream for a long time since I became chairman of the foundation. That's why I came to UMJ, UPI, to study the SS program," he said with sparkling eyes.
He hopes that this program will continue to be implemented in stages. "Yes... We will later implement it in waves. "We'll start with those who are close first, to Asian countries first," he said.
With full enthusiasm, UNESA Labschool students are ready to build close relationships with partner schools in Malaysia and Thailand. The Sister School program is expected to not only improve cross-cultural understanding and academic skills but also build international networks that will support the exchange of ideas and experiences between students from various countries.
Students are ready to take home unforgettable experiences in enriching their horizons and their knowledge. "Have a good trip and hopefully this program will be the start of many inspiring cross-cultural adventures," hoped the head of the UNESA DWP. []
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Reporter: Prismacintya Rachmatica
Editor: @zam Alasiah*
Photo: Public Relations Team Documentation
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