Malang, en.SERU.co.id – Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA) proudly hosted 11 students from Fukuyama Heisei University in Hiroshima, Japan, as part of its International Cultural Exchange program held February 11–13, 2026. This initiative forms a key component of ongoing efforts to deepen international cooperation and cultural exchange between the two institutions.
Rector of UNISMA, Prof. Drs. Junaidi, M.Pd., Ph.D., described the program as a strategic step toward enhancing the university’s internationalization. Such cross-border collaborations not only strengthen institutional bonds but also create valuable global learning opportunities for students.
“We hope this activity serves as a bridge that enriches perspectives, fortifies international friendship, and cultivates sustainable academic collaboration,” Prof. Junaidi stated enthusiastically.
Accompanying lecturer from Fukuyama Heisei University, Prof. Noriaki Kawashima, Ph.D., expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome extended by UNISMA and all involved parties. He noted that the program, which began in 2025, has provided invaluable hands-on experiences for participants—particularly in directly understanding Indonesia’s education system and culture.
“Student involvement in activities at kindergarten (TK) and elementary school (SD) offered authentic, relevant exposure aligned with their focus on Childhood Education,” Prof. Noriaki explained.
He expressed optimism for the partnership’s continued growth, envisioning expanded student exchanges, joint research projects, and the development of cross-cultural learning initiatives.
“We see tremendous potential to build a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership between Fukuyama Heisei University and Universitas Islam Malang,” he added.
The program commenced on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, with a campus tour and an interactive international cultural exchange session involving UNISMA students. Discussions and activities covered campus life, daily routines, and cultural insights from both countries.
Beyond university settings, the Japanese students participated directly in educational activities at nearby institutions. On Thursday, February 12, 2026, they visited RA Muslimat NU 1 (a kindergarten) and SDN Dinoyo 1 (an elementary school) in the vicinity of the UNISMA campus, gaining practical insights into Indonesian early childhood and primary education.
This program exemplifies UNISMA’s firm commitment to campus internationalization. The presence of international students is anticipated to yield positive impacts on UNISMA’s own community—particularly by honing cross-cultural communication skills, expanding global friendship networks, and nurturing a broader global perspective within the academic environment. (*/rhd)
