lkui.umsida.ac.id – Two exceptional students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo (UMSIDA) have officially embarked on a prestigious international academic journey to A.K. Kussayinov Eurasian Humanities Institue (EAGI), Kazakhstan, marking a significant milestone in the university’s mission to establish a strong global footprint. Fauziyah Afifah Siswanto and Salsa Billanazin Zahir, both from the English Language Education Study Program, were formally sent off during a ceremony on Wednesday (02/09) at UMSIDA’s Campus 1. The event was led directly by the Rector of UMSIDA, Dr. Hidayatulloh, M.Si.
This student exchange program is a concrete implementation of international cooperation executed by the English Language Education Study Program under the Faculty of Islamic Studies and Education. Running from September 8 to December 15, 2026, the one-semester program aims to elevate the students’ academic capabilities while expanding UMSIDA’s institutional network on the global stage.
The departure ceremony highlighted the university’s full commitment to internationalization. The event was attended by key university executives and faculty members, including the Director of the Directorate of Language, Cooperation, and International Affairs, alongside Faculty of Education and Islamic Studies Vice Dean II, Dr. Anita Puji Astutik, S.Ag., M.Pd.I.
Representing the English Education Study Program were the Head of the Program, Dr. Fika Megawati, M.Pd., faculty member Dr. Dian Rahma Santoso, and Field Supervisor Wahyu Taufiq, M.Ed. The presence of the university leadership underscored the strategic importance of this program, as both students carry the reputation of UMSIDA to the international community.
Before earning their departure slots, Fauziyah and Salsa underwent a rigorous and comprehensive screening process. The selection committee evaluated their English language proficiency, academic readiness, communication skills, core motivation, and psychological adaptability to ensure they can navigate the academic and social environment of a foreign country seamlessly.
Over the course of the semester at EAGI Kazakhstan, the two students will engage in formal lectures and immerse themselves in the local academic system. Beyond the classroom, they are tasked with acting as cultural ambassadors, participating in cross-cultural exchange activities designed to broaden their global perspectives.
Through this program, the students are expected to not only gain international academic insights but also deeply understand the lifestyle, communication patterns, social norms, and cultural heritage of the Kazakh society. This hands-on experience serves as an ideal catalyst for developing personal independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural competence.
The Head of the English Education Study Program, Dr. Fika Megawati, emphasized that the execution of this program relies heavily on solid synergy across all institutional levels.
“This program is made possible by the strong commitment of both the study program and the students, as well as full support from the university. Inter-institutional collaboration is also a crucial element in preparing the activities both academically and administratively,” explained Dr. Fika Megawati.
She further urged the students to be proactive and make the absolute most of every self-development opportunity presented to them during their tenure abroad. “Seize every golden opportunity available and put forth your best effort to bring benefits to yourself, your family, and UMSIDA. The same opportunity may not come around again in the future,” she added, highlighting the importance of accountability and an open mindset.
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This student exchange initiative with EAGI Kazakhstan represents a strategic move by UMSIDA to continuously widen its international education network. The English Education Study Program envisions that the academic and cultural exposure gained by Fauziyah and Salsa will significantly fortify their language proficiency, self-reliance, and global outlook.
Upon returning to Indonesia, both students are expected to act as peer mentors, sharing their knowledge and international experiences with fellow students. This knowledge-sharing mechanism is anticipated to inspire the student body and systematically reinforce a sustainable culture of internationalization within the entire UMSIDA ecosystem.
Source: Fakultas Pendidikan dan Studi Islam, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo (FPSI UMSIDA)
