By AP Dr. Shakinaz Desa, AP Dr. Som Cit Si Nang, Dr. Syazwan Saidin, Ts Dr. Afiq Radzwan, Dr. Riswan Efendi & ChM Dr. Maizatul Najwa Jajuli
Padang, Indonesia – A group of 43 students and 6 lecturers from the Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM) recently participated in an inspiring academic mobility program at Universitas Andalas (UNAND) and Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) in Indonesia. The program was organized by Deputy Dean, Associate Professor Dr. Somcit Sinang, Dr. Afiq Radzwan, and Dr. Riswan Efendi. This exciting initiative gave students the opportunity to explore international academic environments, build global connections, and gain valuable insights to enhance their skills. Simultaneously, FSM lecturers worked to establish long-term academic partnerships aimed at benefiting future students and encouraging collaborative research.
The program began with a thrilling field trip to explore Indonesia’s incredible natural biodiversity. Led by Dr. Aadrean, Head of the Biology Department at UNAND, and supported by Lepidopterist Professor Dr. Dahelmi and a team of local students, FSM participants ventured into the heart of Hutan Pendidikan dan Penelitian UNAND, Indonesia’s second-largest educational forest. There, they were immersed in a living ecosystem rich with unique wildlife, gaining firsthand knowledge about local conservation efforts and the importance of ecological research. This hands-on experience allowed the students to deepen their understanding of environmental science and opened new doors for future research collaborations, including projects on forest conservation and herbarium studies.
In the afternoon, students and staff participated in a variety of specialized workshops designed to enrich their learning experience. Organized by Dr. Maizatul Najwa, these workshops covered a wide range of topics, including genetic lab techniques, lepidoptera studies, chemistry, physics, and innovative approaches to teaching mathematics. The sessions offered fresh insights into how traditional knowledge can be integrated with modern technology, giving participants a new perspective on learning and teaching in their respective fields.
In addition to exploring the natural world, the students attended a thought-provoking guest lecture at UNP, delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Shakinaz Desa. The lecture introduced an innovative approach to teaching biochemistry, called heutagogy, which emphasizes self-determined learning and independence. This method encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, sparking new ideas among FSM students for their own studies. Three students Muhammad Adam Fitri, Muhammad Zulhelmi, and Muhamad Hakimi shared their positive experiences with the heutagogy approach, highlighting how it encouraged them to take ownership of their learning and helped them develop critical thinking skills. The session garnered significant interest from both UNP lecturers and students, leading to plans for future collaboration on teaching methods and academic consultancy.
One of the trip’s highlights was a formal dinner hosted by the Acting Governor of West Sumatra, Audy Joinaldy, where FSM students, lecturers, and Batu Sangkar offshore PhD students had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with local leaders and academic professionals. The Acting Governor emphasized the importance of international exchanges and how such programs can strengthen ties between countries and institutions. He expressed his full support for initiatives like this, recognizing the role they play in promoting cultural understanding and academic collaboration. This interaction also provided a valuable platform for students and lecturers to connect with experts in their fields, deepening their involvement in international academic networks.
The cultural experiences didn’t stop there. The students also participated in a community program at Balai Adat Matur, where they were introduced to the traditional Minang way of life. During the program, they engaged with the local community, learning about the customs and values that define the Minangkabau people. They explored traditional Minang cuisine, while also learning about the importance of food in fostering community bonds. In addition, the students observed and participated in traditional ceremonies that showcased the deep-rooted cultural practices passed down through generations. By gaining insight into the lifestyle and values of Minang youth, the students not only broadened their cultural horizons but also developed a profound respect for the traditions that shape this vibrant community. This immersive experience left a lasting impression, providing them with a holistic understanding of Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry beyond academic and research realms.
The final session of the program was a reflective discussion led by Dr. Syazwan Saidin, where students shared how the mobility experience had profoundly changed them on multiple levels. Emotionally, many expressed how being immersed in a new culture and environment fostered a deeper sense of empathy and appreciation for diversity. Cognitively, exposure to different academic systems and teaching methods broadened their perspectives on learning, helping them become more open-minded and adaptable in their approach to problem-solving. Students also reflected on how the program shifted their mindset, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and think globally. The experience significantly boosted their motivation, with many students now feeling inspired to pursue international collaborations, further studies abroad, or contribute to innovative research in their respective fields. This reflective session not only underscored the personal growth students underwent but also highlighted the lasting impact the program would have on their future academic and professional journeys.
For both the students and lecturers, the program proved to be a transformative experience. Participants returned home not only with new academic insights but also with a broader understanding of Indonesia’s culture and natural beauty. The program has already paved the way for future collaborations between FSM, UNAND, and UNP, promising to further strengthen the academic ties between these institutions.
This unique mobility program showcased the benefits of international academic exchange, providing students with opportunities to grow academically and culturally. As FSM students and staff return home with newfound knowledge and connections, they look forward to applying their experiences in their future careers and continuing the important work of building bridges between institutions.