International Office of UIN SSC Welcomes Nigerian 2025 SN-GES Scholars, Representing a Milestone in the University’s Internationalization Journey
Cirebon, September, 22nd 2025 — Lala Bumela, Ph.D., Director of the International Office and Partnership at UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, officially welcomed the arrival of four Nigerian students who have finally reached Indonesia under the Syekh Nurjati Global Excellent Scholarship (SN-GES) 2025 program to begin their studies at UIN SSC. The new international students include Aliyu Masaudu (Islamic Communication and Broadcasting), Muhammad Bello Abbay (Sharia Accounting), Haruna Musa Balarabe (Sharia Economics), and Umar Abba (Qur’anic Studies and Tafsir). The atmosphere in the International Office was notably vibrant and global, as the university’s international connections became a living reality. Accompanied by the Global Engagement Team from the International Office, Lala Bumela expressed, “Today we are witnessing our vision turning into reality. The arrival of these students under the SN-GES 2025 program signifies not only a milestone for UIN SSC but also the beginning of a deeper intercultural journey for all of us.”
The arrival of the Nigerian students marks a significant moment in UIN SSC’s ongoing internationalization efforts. Over the past five years, the university has steadily expanded its partnerships with overseas institutions and introduced various scholarship programs to attract international students. This intake of students from Nigeria is part of the Syekh Nurjati Global Excellent Scholarship (SN-GES), an initiative designed to create a multicultural learning environment and promote academic excellence among students from different countries.
During their first meeting at the International Office, the Nigerian students received an orientation on campus facilities, academic procedures, and community engagement opportunities. The Global Engagement Team also briefed them on Indonesian culture and daily life to help ease their transition. Lala Bumela remarked, “We want our international students to feel at home here. UIN SSC is not just an institution; it is a community where diversity is celebrated, and where every student can grow academically, culturally, and spiritually.”
The Nigerian students expressed enthusiasm about beginning their studies at UIN SSC, noting their interest in learning about Indonesia’s unique blend of Islamic scholarship and local culture. They also highlighted their excitement about contributing to campus life through student organizations, research, and community service. Their presence is expected to enrich classroom discussions, broaden perspectives, and inspire collaborative projects between local and international students.
In addition to academic support, the International Office has arranged mentoring programs, language assistance, and cultural exchange activities to help the students adapt smoothly. Plans are also in place for them to participate in outreach programs in Cirebon, giving them firsthand experience of the social and cultural contexts in which UIN SSC operates. This holistic approach aims to ensure that international students not only excel in their studies but also feel connected to the university and the surrounding community.
As UIN SSC continues to strengthen its global engagement, the arrival of the Nigerian students serves as a model for future international cohorts. The university hopes to welcome more students from other countries in the coming years, further diversifying its academic environment and fostering mutual understanding. Lala Bumela concluded, “This is just the beginning. By welcoming students from Nigeria, we are opening our doors wider to the world, and we believe these connections will create lasting friendships, academic collaborations, and a truly global campus culture.”
Author: Muhammad Azkiya Bahtsulkhoir