Ramadan Excellence: A Podcast for Intercultural Understanding and Global Dialogue
Cirebon, February 25, 2025 — International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) proudly initiated a transformative cultural program titled Ramadhan Excellence: Global Ramadhan, a unique platform that brings together students from across the globe during the holy month of Ramadan. Hosted by Bryan Setiaji and Lukman Anwar Ismail, the podcast featured six international guests—Tony Samula Guiamam, Asia Samang, Raquema B. Moten, Balkis Song, Adam Saraeh, and Safi'e Lauree—who shared their personal stories, cultural insights, and Ramadan experiences from their respective countries.
This intercultural sharing session was more than just a podcast—it was a revolution in digital diplomacy and multicultural communication. “Ramadan Excellence is our way of expressing that even within a cyber campus, we can still foster deep, global human connections,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. Head of International Office. The program exemplifies UIN SSC's commitment to developing a global campus identity that transcends physical borders and engages diverse cultural ideologies in one collaborative space.
Lala Bumela, Ph.D., Director of the International Office and Partnership, emphasized that this initiative reflects the university’s vision of becoming a pioneer in educational diplomacy. “This podcast is a symbol of soft power. Through language, culture, and digital expression, we introduce the spirit of Indonesia and Islam to the world,” she noted during her dialogue with Farah Syifa, one of the participating students. Both highlighted how this form of digital content empowers students to become cultural ambassadors.
As a cyber-based Islamic university with multicultural students from various continents, UIN SSC positions itself not just as a place of learning, but as a center for cross-border cultural diplomacy. The Ramadan Excellence program demonstrates how podcasting and digital storytelling can become powerful tools for promoting Indonesian cultural values while fostering respect for other traditions. Using TPACK-based pedagogy (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge), the initiative embodies innovative education for the modern era.
The Ramadan Excellence podcast was directed by Muhammad Azkiya, who ensured that the show retained its authenticity while addressing meaningful topics. Episodes were rich with emotional and intellectual dialogue, drawing attention to shared values such as compassion, tolerance, and unity during Ramadan. The platform also allowed listeners to reflect on the beauty of religious and cultural differences in a constructive, open-minded setting.
For the International Office, this initiative reflects more than just event management—it is about shaping the future of global education at UIN SSC. By offering a voice to international students, the office continues to champion diversity and promote internationalization strategies that are both inclusive and impactful. Each podcast episode is not only a product of intercultural dialogue but also a step toward soft diplomacy led by youth.
Ultimately, Ramadhan Excellence: Global Ramadhan is a celebration of thought, identity, and global connection. It embodies the mission of UIN SSC to become a pioneer of multicultural education in the digital era. By nurturing cross-cultural communication through accessible platforms, UIN SSC empowers its students to become leaders of peace, understanding, and cooperation—values essential in realizing the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045.
Authors: Shofiatul Faqriyah and Muhammad Azkiya