UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta continues to expand its presence on the international stage. One of its students recently participated in the Global Volunteer program, an initiative organized by AIESEC. It is the world’s largest youth leadership organization. Maharani Dean Pramudita, a fifth-semester Sociology student, took part in the Global Volunteer program in Vietnam. This program aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which emphasizes the importance of quality education for all.
Bringing Interactive Learning to Vietnam
Maharani collaborated with Kwok Ka Ho from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Together, they run the “Happy Bus” program at MONTESSORI TƯƠNG LAI, Vietnam. The program lasted six weeks, from December 14, 2024, to January 26, 2025. Its primary goal was to enhance early childhood education in rural Vietnam while fostering cross-cultural understanding. Locally, AIESEC in UNS played a crucial role in providing students with valuable international experiences. The Global Volunteer program is one of AIESEC’s flagship initiatives, designed to develop youth leadership through cross-cultural experiences. It also aims to make a positive impact on local communities.
Educational Games
The Happy Bus program implemented a game-based learning approach, specifically designed for children aged 3–6. It primarily focused on teaching English through interactive and enjoyable methods.
During the first four weeks, Maharani actively served as an English teacher. She also assisted in various educational activities, including swimming classes to develop gross motor skills. Then it was sensory classes to enhance cognitive and sensory abilities. In addition, she added aerobics classes to promote physical health.
“The approach we used was very different from conventional methods,” Maharani said on Thursday (30/1/2025). “Together with the school, I designed various educational games that were engaging and effective. These activities made it easier for children to understand and retain lessons. Seeing their enthusiasm while learning through play was truly rewarding.”
Appreciation from the Principal of MONTESSORI TƯƠNG LAI
The Principal of MONTESSORI TƯƠNG LAI, Huệ Lê, expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and creativity of the Global Volunteer participants. She was particularly impressed by Maharani’s ability to integrate Indonesian cultural values into the learning process. Huệ Lê hopes that similar programs will continue in collaboration with universities in Indonesia, particularly with UNS.
“Maharani’s presence has brought new energy to our school,” Huệ Lê stated.
“Her teaching methods were highly effective and enjoyable. We have seen remarkable improvements in students’ English skills, as well as their confidence and motivation to learn.”
As a result, the collaboration with AIESEC in UNS introduced new perspectives in teaching methods at MONTESSORI TƯƠNG LAI. Many of Maharani’s approaches will serve as references for future curriculum development.
Humas UNS
Reporter: Dikky Yudi Pradana
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
