UNS — A total of 24 students from Kokushikan University, Japan studied Indonesian language and culture at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta for one month. They were part of the Discover Indonesia Better (DIB) Course 2023 program organized by UNS through the Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) for International Cooperation and Services (KLI) with Kokushikan University.
Besides indoor activities such as Indonesian for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) classes, they also learned about Indonesian culture by visiting several historical sites. The end of this program was marked by a closing ceremony on Wednesday (8/3/2023) at the UNS Javanologi Center for Excellence in Science and Technology (PUI).
Following are the impressions of Kokushikan University students, Japan while participating in the DIB Course 2023 at UNS.
1. Hirata Ebano
“I am very happy to come to Indonesia. This is my first time going abroad, Indonesia is a great place (country). I have studied Indonesian for about two years, therefore I am very happy to study in Indonesia. Indonesian people are also very kind and friendly. I want to go to Indonesia again. Thank you very much.”.
2. Tomozane Kou
“At first, I was worried about the differences in environment and language. I am very happy to meet Aldi (BIPA tutor) and others. I learned Indonesian language and culture in a short time. So, I think I will study harder. Thank you for everything.”
3. Ota Chami
“My impression of the DIB program is learning and fun. Studying at a Japanese university and actually talking to Indonesians are two different things. Since I studied in Indonesia, my knowledge and awareness have increased. The people (tutors) who teach Indonesian are also very good. Those are precious memories for me.”
4. Yuma Kishimoto
“Studying in Indonesia was a valuable experience for me. Indonesian food is also delicious. I can go to Solo Safari, Press Monument, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, and many other interesting places. Thanks to Teacher Atma, Teacher Kafit, and Teacher Rista, my Indonesian language skills have improved. Thank you for the wonderful memories.” Humas UNS
Reporter: Bayu Aji Prasetya
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
Translator: Mifta Muriska