International Office of UIN SSC Empowers International Students to Lead Global Outreach Seminar at SMP Smart Auladi Cirebon
Cirebon, November 11, 2025 — Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office, held a preparatory meeting with two international students, Baby Farhana L. Tunggay from the Philippines and Umar Abbas from Africa, at the International Office on the fifth floor of the Siber Building, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UIN SSC). The discussion centered on their upcoming role as speakers in a seminar at SMP Smart Auladi, Cirebon, which aims to introduce Africa, the Philippines, and UIN SSC on a global scale. The seminar also serves as part of the efforts to support the transformation of IAIN into UIN, highlighting the institution’s growing international engagement and academic development. Although still in the planning phase, both students actively shared their initial ideas and expectations for the event. The seminar will serve as a platform for them to promote cultural understanding among younger audiences. The meeting reflected a spirit of collaboration, curiosity, and global-mindedness.
During the session, Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office, provided guidance and encouragement to both students. He discussed how they could design presentations that balance cultural insight with engaging storytelling. The goal, according to him, is to help the audience learn about different countries while appreciating UIN SSC’s global vision. Baby and Umar were also advised to include interactive elements that would make their sessions more lively. The meeting encouraged them to think critically about how to represent both their home countries and the university.
Baby expressed her excitement during the meeting, sharing how meaningful the opportunity felt for her as an international student. She mentioned that this would be her first time presenting about the Philippines to Indonesian students in an offline school seminar. Umar also voiced his enthusiasm, saying he wanted to show that Africa is full of culture, diversity, and stories worth sharing. Both students exchanged creative ideas on how to deliver their materials effectively. Their passion and teamwork were clearly visible throughout the discussion.
In his remarks, Lala Bumela, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of this activity as part of UIN SSC’s broader internationalization effort. “Through this activity, we hope our international students not only share about their countries but also act as ambassadors who represent the global spirit of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon,” he said. He also expressed pride in seeing Baby and Umar’s initiative to step forward and inspire others. According to him, this collaboration shows how the International Office can bridge cultural exchange in meaningful ways. His encouragement further motivated both students to prepare wholeheartedly.
The seminar aims to promote global awareness, strengthen intercultural understanding, and introduce UIN SSC’s international programs. It is expected to benefit both the speakers and the audience by fostering mutual respect and appreciation of cultural diversity. With Baby and Umar as speakers, the event will also demonstrate the growing presence of international students at UIN SSC. Their participation represents the university’s commitment to creating a diverse academic environment. This initiative highlights how cultural exchange can become an integral part of learning.
As preparations continue, Baby and Umar are now preparing their presentation plan under the direction of the International Office. The collaboration reflects the university’s ongoing dedication to developing confident and globally aware students. Although the seminar’s exact date has not yet been announced, plans are progressing with optimism and enthusiasm. Both students are determined to represent their countries and UIN SSC with excellence. The International Office remains confident that this activity will mark another step toward strengthening global engagement within the university community.
Author: Salsabilla