Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding: GET Member Bryan Setiaji Presents Cirebon to Nigerian SN-GES 2025 Students
Cirebon, September, 22nd 2025 — On a bright morning, the international students awarded the Syekh Nurjati Global e-Scholarship (SN-GES) 2025 began their orientation period at Universitas Islam Negeri Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UIN SSC). The event took place on the 5th floor of the Siber Building, in the International Office and Partnership Room at UIN SSC. Lala Bumela, Ph.D., Director of the International Office and Partnership at UIN SSC, together with the Global Engagement Team (GET), warmly welcomed their arrival. This orientation is part of UIN SSC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its internationalization strategy and foster an inclusive academic environment. In this welcoming environment, Bryan Setiaji, a member of GET, actively introduced Indonesian culture, particularly the rich heritage of Cirebon to the new students. The international students include Aliyu Masaudu (Islamic Communication and Broadcasting), Muhammad Bello Abbas (Sharia Accounting), Haruna Musa Balarabe (Sharia Economics), and Umar Abba (Qur’anic Studies and Tafsir). “We highly appreciate Bryan Setiaji’s contribution, as he consistently brings both academic and cultural dimensions into every international student orientation,” said Lala Bumela.
During his cultural introduction session, Bryan Setiaji shared the history and uniqueness of Cirebon, from the legacy of the Cirebon Sultanate, the iconic Megamendung batik, and renowned local cuisine, to the deeply rooted religious values of its society. He highlighted how Cirebon historically served as a melting pot of various cultures, making it a meaningful starting point for international students to understand Indonesia. “I believe that learning about local culture paves the way for richer academic dialogue and stronger social connections. Cirebon is the perfect gateway for that,” said Bryan Setiaji. He also encouraged the students to explore cultural similarities and differences, viewing them as an opportunity for mutual growth.
Lala Bumela emphasized that the orientation organized by the International Office is not merely a campus introduction but also a strategic platform for fostering global engagement. He pointed out that international students are expected to become cultural ambassadors for their countries while learning to appreciate Indonesian society and values. “We want to ensure that every international student feels welcomed and supported. By introducing Cirebon, we also invite them to understand UIN SSC’s identity as an institution rooted in local values while embracing a global outlook,” explained Lala Bumela.
The orientation atmosphere grew even warmer when the international students engaged in light discussions about their experiences in Indonesia. They appeared enthusiastic as they listened to Bryan Setiaji’s presentation, with some even trying to say simple words in Indonesian. This activity created a relaxed interaction and strengthened the sense of camaraderie between the new students and the GET team. The students shared their first impressions of Indonesian hospitality, its vibrant culture, and their eagerness to explore more about Cirebon during their stay.
Beyond the cultural introduction, the orientation also covered academic programs, research opportunities, and community engagement initiatives at UIN SSC. The students were introduced to various support systems available to help them succeed, from language and intercultural workshops to mentorship schemes offered by the International Office. Bryan Setiaji noted that these programs are designed to bridge academic learning and cultural immersion, helping international students feel at home while excelling in their studies. “Our goal is to ensure that these students are not only learning in classrooms but also living the values of cross-cultural respect and collaboration,” Bryan added.
As the orientation concluded, Lala Bumela reaffirmed UIN SSC’s commitment to developing a truly international campus environment. He expressed his hope that the SN-GES 2025 recipients would become role models of global citizenship and cross-cultural dialogue within and beyond the university. “This is only the beginning of their journey at UIN SSC, but we believe that with support from GET members like Bryan Setiaji and our entire team, they will thrive academically and culturally,” he stated. The event reflected UIN SSC’s broader mission: to create graduates who not only excel in their fields but also embody the values of tolerance, understanding, and international cooperation.
Author: Muhammad Azkiya Bahtsulkhoir