Writer: Duke Paopathon Pardede (2461001) | Editor : Annisa Muasrani, S.I.Kom, M.I.Kom
Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) welcomed two international students participating in the Darmasiswa Program 2026 through the Welcoming Ceremony for Darmasiswa Students 2026. The activity took place on September 29, 2026, at the 1st Floor, Grand Center, Building A, UIB, Batam. The event marked the beginning of their academic and cultural experience at UIB.
The two Darmasiswa students are Sayaka Takada from Japan and Hassan Alvarez Soberano from the Philippines. They were welcomed by Theodesia Lady Pratiwi, S.Pd., M.Hum., Cooperation Coordinator at the International Relations Office (IRO) UIB, and Hendra Nugraha, S.S., M.Hum., Head of the English Language Center (ELC) UIB.
The welcoming ceremony was organized to introduce the students to the university environment, academic services, learning activities, and support units. The activity also served as an initial step to help them adapt to campus life and their new cultural environment in Batam.
Welcoming Darmasiswa Students and Introducing UIB
During the welcoming session, Sayaka and Hassan received an introduction to UIB and its academic environment. Ms. Theo and Sir Hendra explained important information about the university, campus culture, and facilities that the students would encounter during their studies.
In addition, the students received information about campus regulations and important matters that they need to understand while studying at UIB. The briefing also introduced the academic support available to international students throughout their program.
As part of their preparation, the students were also introduced to the Bahasa Indonesia bagi Penutur Asing (BIPA) program. The session covered the BIPA classes, learning activities, and class timeline. These explanations provided the students with an overview of what to expect during their studies at UIB.
Through the session, UIB also aimed to establish clear communication between the students and the units supporting the Darmasiswa Program. This initial interaction is expected to help the students feel more comfortable and prepared as they begin their academic journey.
UIB Students Become Buddies for Darmasiswa Participants
To support their adjustment during the program, UIB also assigned student buddies to accompany the two Darmasiswa participants. The buddy system provides an opportunity for international students to interact directly with UIB students throughout their time on campus.
The appointed buddies are Mutiara Reyla Amanda, a fifth-semester Management student; Citra Vebricia, a third-semester Management student; Fauzia Lailul Rahma, a fifth-semester Law student; and Nurfara Nabilla, a fifth-semester Management student.
Through this arrangement, the Darmasiswa students can receive peer support while becoming more familiar with daily life at UIB and in Batam. Meanwhile, the UIB buddies also have an opportunity to develop cross-cultural communication and build international friendships.
Supporting Cultural and Academic Adaptation
The Welcoming Ceremony for Darmasiswa Students 2026 is part of UIB’s support for the successful implementation of the Darmasiswa Program. The program aims to introduce Indonesian language, culture, and community life to international students.
Following the welcoming activity, Sayaka and Hassan will continue their BIPA learning and participate in academic and cultural activities during their time at UIB. Coordination between IRO, BIPA instructors, and ELC will continue to support their experience throughout the program.
Through the Darmasiswa Students 2026 welcoming program, UIB continues to create an inclusive international learning environment. The university hopes that Sayaka and Hassan will gain meaningful academic and cultural experiences while building connections with the UIB community.
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