May 18, 2024
by Yasmin Mohammad Mansor, Nur Alia Izzati Fauzi, & Siti Nur Aqilah Izzati Rosli
Location: Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, East Java, Indonesia.
The International Health and Culture Mobility Programme, organized by the Faculty of Health Sciences at Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, East Java, Indonesia, was held from 6 to 18 2024. This enriching program was designed to provide students with a unique opportunity to engage in academic activities, cultural exchange, and personal development. Notably, students from the Kulliyyah of Nursing (KON) were among the participants, actively involved in this culture-enriching experience.
The program aimed to immerse students in Indonesian culture, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the country’s traditions, languages, and societal norms. Additionally, it provided an overseas academic experience, promoting personal growth and intercultural awareness. The program also focused on developing students’ independence, resilience, and intercultural communication skills, benefiting their future careers.
Participants from IIUM included Yasmin Binti Mohammad Mansor, Nur Alia Izzati Binti Fauzi, and Siti Nur Aqilah Izzati Binti Rosli, all of whom shared their positive experiences. They emphasized the program’s impact on their academic and personal growth, expressing gratitude for the chance to experience Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage. The warm hospitality of the Indonesian people made them feel welcomed and integrated into the local community.
Universitas Brawijaya, situated in a picturesque mountain area, provided a unique and natural backdrop for learning and exploration. Exposure to different teaching methods and academic approaches enriched the students’ academic experiences, particularly through community mental health programs at Puskesmas Bantur. Adapting to a new environment fostered personal growth, increased confidence, and improved intercultural communication skills. Engaging in daily activities and academic courses in Bahasa Indonesia and English helped students enhance their language skills.
A three-day internship at Rumah Sakit Saiful Anwar provided valuable insights into Indonesia’s clinical settings and practical experience in their fields of study. The program included several activities that left lasting impressions, such as community health visits to Posyandu Janti and Puskesmas Janti, an excursion to Mount Bromo, and the clinical internship at Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Saiful Anwar. The participants of this mobility programme also had a chance to visit Puskesmas Bantur, which offered insights into community mental health programs.
In conclusion, the International Health and Culture Mobility Programme was a resounding success, providing students with a well-rounded experience that combined academic learning, cultural immersion, and personal development. Participants returned with enriched perspectives, newfound confidence, and valuable skills that will benefit them in their future careers. The program’s emphasis on cultural exchange, academic enrichment, and personal growth made it a memorable and transformative experience for all involved, particularly highlighting the active participation and involvement of the Kulliyyah of Nursing students.