UL Delegate Deepens Cultural Understanding on Day 3 of International Staff Mobility 2026 in Indonesia

The University of Luzon continued its active participation in the International Staff Mobility 2026 program hosted by Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) in Surabaya, Indonesia, as Day 3 activities provided enriching opportunities for cultural immersion, language learning, and international collaboration.

University of Luzon’s very own Dr. Carmelo John E. Vidal joined fellow delegates in a series of engaging activities designed to foster intercultural understanding and strengthen global partnerships. The day began with an interactive Fun Bahasa session facilitated by the Global Language Center–ITS, where participants learned basic Indonesian language expressions and gained deeper insights into the country’s culture, traditions, and modes of communication. The activity highlighted the importance of language as a bridge for meaningful international engagement and collaboration.

The learning experience continued with a visit to the Surabaya Heroes Monument, one of Indonesia’s most iconic historical landmarks. The site stands as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and national identity, offering participants a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Through this cultural exploration, delegates were able to better understand the values and historical narratives that continue to shape Indonesian society.

To conclude the day, participants visited Mirota Batik, where they explored a variety of locally crafted products and traditional Indonesian batik. The visit showcased the country’s vibrant cultural heritage while highlighting the role of local enterprises in preserving traditions and contributing to economic development.

Beyond cultural exploration, Day 3 served as another meaningful opportunity to strengthen international camaraderie, foster mutual respect among diverse communities, and build lasting academic connections among participating institutions. Such experiences enrich global perspectives and reinforce the value of collaboration in addressing shared challenges and advancing educational excellence.

The activities of the International Staff Mobility Program Day 3 aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting intercultural learning and global competence, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth through appreciation of local entrepreneurship and cultural industries, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting cultural heritage preservation and community identity, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening international cooperation and academic networks.

As the International Staff Mobility Program continues, the University of Luzon remains committed to nurturing globally engaged educators and leaders who contribute to a more interconnected, inclusive, and sustainable world.