UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Hosts Pre-Departure Meeting for Incoming International Students on Syekh Nurjati Global Excellence Scholarship (SN-GES) 2025
Cirebon, September 4, 2025 – The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon successfully conducted a pre-departure online meeting for a diverse group of international students selected as recipients of the prestigious Syekh Nurjati Global Excellence Scholarship (SN-GES). The virtual session together with students from Thailand, Philippines, Nigeria, Yemen, and Senegal, all of whom are preparing to begin their academic journey in Indonesia. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and anticipation, as both the students and the university expressed mutual excitement for their arrival. Many will arrive as early as tomorrow, with others following in the coming days. The meeting served as a crucial orientation, ensuring that all scholars are well-informed and fully prepared for their new academic and cultural experience.
The session focused on outlining the academic and behavioral expectations for all scholarship recipients. The International Office emphasized that maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.25 is mandatory throughout their study period to ensure academic excellence and continued eligibility for the scholarship. Attendance in class is strictly monitored, with students allowed no more than three absences, excused only for illness or emergencies. Participants were also briefed on life in the ma’had (Islamic dormitory), where they are required to participate in communal prayers and religious gatherings. A curfew of 10:00 PM has been set to promote discipline, spiritual focus, and restful routines within the dormitory environment.
Financial responsibility was another key topic discussed during the meeting. Each student is required to save at least IDR 200,000 from their monthly allowance as part of a financial literacy initiative. They must also submit a monthly financial report using a standardized template provided by the International Office. This practice aims to cultivate budgeting skills and accountability. For travel outside Cirebon, students must obtain prior permission through a formal letter issued by the International Office. Similarly, participation in student organizations requires official approval, ensuring that extracurricular involvement does not interfere with academic or ma’had commitments.
Health and safety regulations were clearly communicated, particularly regarding the university’s insurance coverage. Students were reminded that smoking is strictly prohibited, as it voids their insurance policy. In the event of illness, they must immediately report to the designated International Office coordinator. To claim medical expenses, they are required to submit a copy of the medicine receipt, a photo of the receipt, and an official hospital invoice. This streamlined process ensures timely support while maintaining transparency and compliance with insurance protocols. “We want you to stay healthy, but if you are sick, please report it immediately—we are here to help,” said a representative from the International Office.
Participants also received detailed information about the facilities available in the ma’had, which includes Wi-Fi, clean water, study desks, wardrobes, mattresses, and other essential amenities to support a comfortable and conducive living environment. The International Office reassured students that their well-being and academic success are top priorities. Additionally, travel arrangements were thoroughly explained: a welcoming team will be present at the airport holding a sign that reads UIN SIBER SYEKH NURJATI CIREBON. This team will assist with immigration, baggage collection, and transportation, ensuring a smooth transition from arrival to arrival at the ma’had.
The meeting concluded with a warm message of welcome and encouragement. “We are not just preparing you to be students, but future leaders and cultural ambassadors,” said the International Office. “Your journey with us is not only about earning a degree, but about growing as individuals, deepening your faith, and building lifelong connections.” With clear guidelines, strong support systems, and a spirit of mutual respect, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon is ready to welcome its newest international scholars into a vibrant, transformative academic community.
Author: Cyrila Zahra Tsania