UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Opens Golden Pathway: One-Year Internship in Japan, Preparing Students for Global Professional Success in Collaboration with Nukita Kunci Buana
Cirebon, July 11, 2025 — UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) continues to expand its global engagement by strengthening collaboration with Nukita Kunci Buana, a reputable Indonesian-based organization that connects students with international internship opportunities in Japan. This strategic partnership was officially established through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 17, 2025, followed by a virtual meeting held on July 11, 2025. The meeting aimed to discuss implementation strategies and preparation steps for students interested in joining the 1-year internship program in Japan. Participants included key representatives from both institutions, ensuring smooth coordination and student-centered planning. This initiative reflects UINSSC’s commitment to enhancing student employability and providing real-world professional experiences abroad.
The virtual meeting brought together five internal participants from UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon: Dr. Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office; Dr. Nana Priajana, representing the Language Development Center (UPT Bahasa); Wahyono, M.Pd.I., Head of the Career Development Center; Nelly Husni Laely, M.Pd., as Secretary of the Career Development Center; and Ivo Dinasta Yanuar, M.Appling, as Secretary of the International Office. Representing Nukita Kunci Buana was Tata Sugiarta, who provided detailed information about the program structure, selection process, and employer expectations. The discussion focused on aligning university support systems with program requirements to ensure high success rates among participants.
During the meeting, four structured programs were outlined: the Internship Program (1 year), Magang Program (3 years), Tokutei Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker Program), and Senmon Gakkou (Vocational School in Japan). However, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon and Nukita Kunci Buana will focus exclusively on the 1-year Internship Program in Japan. This program allows students to gain hands-on work experience in Japanese companies while immersing themselves in the local culture and language. Unlike other long-term schemes, this internship is designed to fit within academic timelines, making it accessible to a wider group of students. It also serves as a gateway to further opportunities, such as extended employment or study pathways after completion. The one-year duration provides sufficient time for students to develop professional skills and build networks without disrupting their academic progress.
A key highlight of the program is its accessibility, especially regarding language proficiency. While formal JLPT certification (N5/N4) is not required, applicants are expected to have basic conversational skills in Japanese. These include introducing oneself, shopping at convenience stores, greeting colleagues, and understanding simple workplace instructions. UINSSC will provide intensive Japanese language training through UPT Bahasa to help students reach this level. Additionally, pre-departure workshops will cover Japanese work culture, etiquette, and soft skills to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace. Students who successfully complete the internship can later take the Specific Skills Worker (SSW) exam in Japan if they wish to extend their stay as professionals.
An important part of the selection process is the mensetsu, or direct interview conducted by Japanese company representatives. There are no written tests, only an interview where candidates must demonstrate confidence, communication ability, and cultural awareness. Nukita Kunci Buana will offer interview coaching sessions to help students prepare effectively. These sessions will focus on body language, tone of voice, and appropriate responses aligned with Japanese business norms. The International Office, together with the Career Development Center, will also organize mock interviews and personal development workshops. Success in the mensetsu means the candidate has secured a placement and can proceed to visa and documentation procedures.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon’s efforts to enhance global experiential learning opportunities for its students. By focusing on the 1-year internship, the university is offering a realistic, achievable, and impactful pathway for students to gain international work experience. The program supports not only professional growth but also intercultural understanding, adaptability, and self-confidence. The International Office emphasized that this opportunity helps students stand out in the job market by combining academic knowledge with real-world practice. “We see this internship program as a unique and valuable opportunity for our students to gain real international work experience while improving their Japanese language and intercultural skills,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D.
UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon believes that every student deserves the chance to explore the world and build a meaningful career beyond borders. Through this internship program, students can gain valuable insights into Japanese work ethics, improve their language skills, and broaden their perspectives. The International Office encourages all interested students to start preparing early by enrolling in Japanese language courses and attending upcoming orientation sessions. More information about registration, timelines, and eligibility will be shared soon via official channels. For further inquiries, students can contact the International Office directly international@uinssc.ac.id at or follow updates on Instagram @io.uinssc.
Author: Resa Diah Gayatri