International Office of UINSSC Supports English Debate Competition in Collaboration with MGMP Cirebon Region and Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training
Cirebon, 26 July 2025 – Farah, Cyrila, Indah, Rizki, and Anandita, who are currently interns at the International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (Global Engagement Team), recently played an important role in the English Debate Competition held on July 26th. This event was a collaborative effort between MGMP Bahasa Inggris (English Language) for Senior High Schools in Cirebon region and the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, especially the English Language Teaching Department. The competition brought together talented high school students to showcase their critical thinking and public speaking skills in English. For the International Office interns, it was more than just volunteering, it was a chance to put their communication and leadership skills into action.
Throughout the competition, our interns took on crucial roles that ensured the event ran smoothly. Farah and Indah acted as moderators and Liaison Officers, guiding participants and judges through every debate round. Cyrila, Anandita and Rizki were assigned as timekeepers, responsible for managing the strict timing rules of the debate format. “It was quite challenging but rewarding when we could help the participants stay on track,” said Rizki about the experience. Their tasks required precision, confidence, and quick decision-making, qualities that our interns have been honing through their work at the International Office.
The English Debate Competition itself was held in multiple rounds: starting from Preliminary Round 1, followed by True Match Point, Semi Final, and end with the Grand Final. Every round was intense, with debaters exchanging strong arguments and counterpoints in English. As moderators, Global Engagement Team ensured that the debates stayed fair and professional, while the timekeepers monitored every second with high accuracy. They used desk taps to signal when a Point of Interruption (POI) could be made, when it had to stop, or when a speaker’s time was over. These tasks might look simple, but they demanded full focus and clear coordination.
Besides the interns, members of the English Student Association also contributed to the success of this event. Their teamwork with the Global Engagement Team showed how different units within the university can support external academic activities together. The presence of our interns at this event was not just about helping out, it also strengthened the image of the International Office as a unit that empowers students to gain real-world experience. By being involved directly, they demonstrated the spirit of collaboration and service that the Office upholds.
The International Office believes that meaningful engagements like this are key to preparing students for future global challenges. By stepping in as moderators and timekeepers, the interns got firsthand experience in handling high-pressure situations, communicating with diverse participants, and applying their English language skills in a practical context. These skills are exactly what the International Office aims to develop in its student interns. Supporting events like this is part of our commitment to nurturing global-minded students who are confident to lead and serve.
This English Debate Competition also gave our interns valuable networking opportunities with teachers, students, and academic staff from the Faculty of Tarbiyah & Teacher Training and MGMP B. Inggris Cirebon region. They were able to exchange ideas, learn about event management, and understand how inter-school competitions can motivate students to sharpen their skills. “We’re really grateful for the trust given to us to be part of this,” said Cyrila, one of the timekeeper. Experiences like these prove that internships at the International Office go beyond paperwork, they open doors to real contributions.
Moving forward, the International Office will continue to encourage its interns to take part in similar academic and cultural activities. The director of International Office, Mr. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. saw this as an investment in building students’ confidence and professional abilities. He was proud of Farah, Cyrila, Indah, Rizki, and Anandita for showing dedication and teamwork throughout the event. Their involvement sets an inspiring example for other students who wish to grow and represent UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon beyond campus borders. This successful collaboration is just one of many initiatives where the International Office hopes to be present and contribute.
Author: Cyrila Zahra Tsania