Bahasa Indonesia
Surabaya- The spirit of cultural exchange and unity is vibrantly displayed at the 4th Brave! Program hosted by Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (Unusa) through its Global Engagement of Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (Genus) at the Tower Unusa Campus B Jemursari, Surabaya, on Thursday, August 29. Themed “Culture Day,” the event wis organized in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine (FK) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The lively event serves as a platform for fostering relationships among international students from the Philippines, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Indonesia, while introducing them to the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia.
The 4th Brave! Program coincides with Faculty of Medicine Unusa’s International Community Service Program, part of the celebrations marking the Faculty of Medicine’s 10th anniversary. International students, alongside the children of migrant families, eagerly participate in various activities, including tote bag tie-dyeing and hand printing, which offered them a hands-on experience of local arts and culture. The children of migrant families performe traditional dances, while the international students play traditional Angklung music, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.
Dr. Handayani, M.Kes., Dean of Faculty of Medicine Unusa, expresses her pride and emotion over the event, stating that it is not just a ceremonial activity, but an initiative with long-term impact for Unusa and its participants.
“The 4th Brave! Program is a testament to Unusa’s commitment to strengthening international relations through education and cultural exchange. This event is not just about showcasing cultural diversity but also a strategic step in elevating Unusa’s global image,” she proudly remarked.
Dr. Handayani emphasizes the significant value added by the active participation of international students. “We are proud to host students from various countries. Their presence not only enriches the academic experience but also strengthens Unusa’s reputation as an inclusive and globally-minded institution. With the involvement of international students, we hope Unusa will continue to be recognized as a university committed to global development and adaptable to international dynamics,” she continued.
Furthermore, Dr. Handayani highlights the importance of such activities in building harmonious and constructive relationships between local and international students. “This event offers students a unique opportunity to experience togetherness, something they may not get in the classroom. They learn not only from academic materials but also from direct interaction with other cultures, which is essential in shaping open-minded and tolerant individuals,” she stated.
She believes the camaraderie and share experiences during the 4th Brave! Program mark a crucial starting point in fostering deeper cultural understanding among students from diverse backgrounds.
“This is a moment where they not only learn about other cultures but also learn to appreciate differences, which is the essence of international education. We see that the relationships formed here will become a strong foundation for future international networks, both in academic and professional fields,” Dr. Handayani added.
She also mentions that this event is not just an annual program but a movement that will continue to grow over time. “We don’t want this event to be forgotten once it’s over. We are committed to continuously developing the Brave Program and similar initiatives to benefit not only Unusa students but also the international community. We aspire to make Unusa a recognized center for cultural and academic exchange on a global scale,” she said with optimism.
Dr. Handayani further explains that the Brave Program is part of Unusa’s long-term strategy to expand its international network.
“We see that events like this can open many opportunities for future collaborations in academics, research, and social development. With strong relationships between students from different countries, we are confident that Unusa will increasingly be recognized as an institution that not only focuses on local education but also plays an active role in building a more inclusive and sustainable global community,” she concluded.
One of the participants, Ribeilizho Carrol Lay Gloria Guterres, a student from Timor Leste, expresses her excitement about participating in the event. “I am very happy to learn how to make a tie-dye tote bag; it is a very valuable experience for me. I also felt happy to meet friends from other countries and share stories and experiences,” he said enthusiastically.
The 4th Brave! Program successfully combines elements of culture, education, and social interaction in one meaningful event. The program is expected to continue in the coming years, in line with Unusa’s commitment to strengthening international relations and expanding its influence in global education.
This year’s Brave Program not only serves as a platform for cultural and knowledge exchange but also foster a sense of brotherhood among students from various countries. By involving multiple parties, including IOM and Faculty of Medicine Unusa, the event has a wide-reaching positive impact on students, migrant families, and the broader community. Through this initiative, Unusa once again reinforce its position as a university that is actively engaged in building strong and harmonious international relationships.
