CBM Student Mobility Program

BSBA Students Deepen Cross-Cultural Learning Through Bahasa Indonesia Class

On June 13, the BSBA students from Guimaras State University (GSU), currently participating in the student mobility program, had the enriching opportunity to attend a Bahasa Indonesia language class hosted by the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIB), in collaboration with the College of Science and Technology.

The day began with Session 1: Pendahuluan, facilitated by Padel M. Rallie Rivaldy, M.Hum. Students were introduced to the basics of Bahasa Indonesia, including commonly used greetings, simple vocabulary, and sentence structures. They also practiced introducing themselves in Bahasa—an essential skill that fosters intercultural communication and boosts their confidence in engaging with local communities.

This was followed by Session 2: Membaca dan Berbicara with Dyah Kristyowati, M.Hum., where students enhanced their reading and speaking skills. This session emphasized pronunciation, listening comprehension, and oral interaction, giving them the practical tools to communicate more naturally and respectfully within the Indonesian context.

A warm and thoughtfully prepared lunch was served by the FISIB faculty, providing a moment for cultural exchange and fellowship.

In the afternoon, they proceeded with Session 3: Tata Bahasa dan Menulis facilitated by Dr. (cand.) Jordy Satria Widodo. This session focused on grammar and writing, helping students construct meaningful sentences and written communication in Bahasa. It further solidified their understanding of linguistic structures, vital for both academic and day-to-day interactions.

Through this immersive language learning experience, the students gained valuable skills that go beyond the classroom. Not only did they learn how to communicate in a new language, but they also deepened their cultural sensitivity and adaptability—qualities that are essential in any global academic or professional setting.

This activity significantly contributes to their student mobility journey, equipping them to engage more meaningfully with their Indonesian peers and the broader community. 🌍✍️📖

BSBA Mobility Experience – June 9: First-Time Train Ride to Jakarta 🚆🇮🇩

On June 9, our BSBA students embarked on an exciting journey—their very first train ride, as part of their mobility program experience in Indonesia. This unforgettable day marked not just a travel experience, but a valuable learning opportunity in observing daily life and urban transportation in a fast-paced city like Jakarta.

🛤️ The Train Experience

The students boarded the train from the outskirts, heading into the heart of Jakarta. Each student was issued a personal access card—a transportation card used to tap in and out at train stations, allowing for seamless entry and exit through automated gates. This card system is widely used in Indonesia’s railway network to ensure efficiency, reduce paper tickets, and streamline passenger movement.

The journey involved multiple stops and train transfers, mimicking what millions of Indonesian commuters experience daily. Guided by friendly and helpful student buddies including Bayu and Sheriff. our students observed how orderly and systematic the train system is, despite the busy rush of passengers.
Through this activity, the students were able to Witness first-hand how public transportation operates in Jakarta. Understand the value of time management, discipline, and patience, all essential traits in navigating a large city. Learn how infrastructure and mass transit systems support economic activity. Gain insights into how mobility and accessibility play a key role in a working person's life—especially those who commute to work or school every day.

Experiencing this efficient train system inspired students to reflect on how urban mobility affects productivity and how similar systems could benefit Philippine cities.

📌A Taste of Jakarta and Cultural Exchange

After the train ride, the group enjoyed a delightful lunch at a mall in Jakarta. It was also a perfect time for our students to explore local shops, buy clothes, and pick out unique souvenirs to bring home to the Philippines—a small token of their cross-cultural experience.

📌Exploring Blok M Plaza

To end the day, the group visited the iconic "Blok M Plaza", a popular hangout spot for young Indonesians. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, affordable fashion boutiques, local cafés, gaming hubs, and entertainment areas, Blok M Plaza reflects the modern youth culture of Jakarta. It’s not just a shopping center—it’s a cultural hub where students, artists, and young professionals gather.

This day was more than just about traveling—it was about learning, exploring, and understanding life from a different cultural lens. It reinforced the importance of global mobility programs in shaping well-rounded, globally-aware future professionals.