Through the NIE ASEAN Scholarship, two Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) students are participating in a four-month exchange program at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore.
Singapore, 17 December 2024 – Two outstanding students from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), Surakarta, have been selected for a prestigious student exchange program at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. Hasna Nurul Izzati, from the Informatics and Computer Technology Education Study Program, and Saifa Dewinugroho, from the Sociology and Anthropology Education Study Program, are attending NTU through the Semester@NIE program, supported by the National Institute of Education (NIE) ASEAN Scholarship. The program runs from August to December 6, 2024.
Before departing for Singapore, Hasna and Saifa underwent a rigorous selection process organized by the FKIP UNS International Office between February and March. This process included registration, administrative screening, and interviews. The program required candidates to be fourth- or sixth-semester students with a minimum GPA of 3.5, proficiency in active English proven by a valid certificate, a valid passport, health insurance, parental consent, and a recommendation letter from their respective Heads of Study Programs.
During their studies at NTU, Hasna and Saifa were allowed to select up to 10 elective courses alongside regular NTU students. The program also included cultural immersion activities, such as guided tours of Singapore, and a four-week Wellness Program that introduced participants to Singapore’s local cuisine, tourist attractions, communication skills, and tips for avoiding scams.
Hasna shared her experience, highlighting her interest in the Modern Indonesia/Malaysia Singapore Literature course, which examines Indonesian history and its influence on literary development. “I recommend this course to future participants of the Semester@NIE program,” Hasna said. She also expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to experience Singapore’s unique culture and education system.
The credits earned from this program are recognized by UNS and converted into scores for Community Service Program and Introduction to the School Field. UNS views this initiative as a contribution to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4—Quality Education, as it broadens student perspectives and fosters global and cross-cultural understanding.
In addition, five top UNS students have been selected to represent the university in the upcoming NIE ASEAN Scholarship selection for the next semester. These students are currently undergoing the administrative process for their Student Pass applications and will soon join the Semester@NIE program.
This initiative underscores Universitas Sebelas Maret’s commitment to supporting SDG 4—Quality Education—and SDG 17—Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening international collaborations to achieve global educational objectives.
