Yogyakarta, September 25, 2025 —The spirit of international collaboration continues at Sekolah Vokasi Universitas Gadjah Mada (SV UGM). This time, SV UGM welcomed a delegation from Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP), Singapore, to discuss the development of a culturally and sustainability-based Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP).
The meeting, held at the Teaching Industry Learning Center (TILC), was attended by the leadership of SV UGM, the Department of Language, Arts, and Cultural Management (DBSMB), and faculty representatives. The discussion served as a platform to explore how OIP could create a broader impact not only for students but also for local communities. Mr. Ivan Siew, NP representative, expressed his pleasure in reconnecting with SV UGM.
“We are very happy to be here. This meeting is important to explore the potential for developing joint programs and providing broader experiences for students,” he said.
SV UGM reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships. Dr. Nuryuda Irdana, S.P., M.M., C.H.E., Head of DBSMB SV UGM, emphasized:
“Our department has extensive experience in organizing immersion programs with partners from various countries. We are very open to collaborating with Ngee Ann Polytechnic,” he said.
The discussion highlighted ways to make OIP more impactful. NP shared that since 2023, the program format has been shortened from two weeks to one week, enabling greater student participation.
The OIP includes cultural exchange, collaborative projects, industry exposure, and sustainability initiatives.
Cultural activities involve learning traditional dance, gamelan music, and visiting heritage sites. Collaborative projects foster cross-disciplinary teamwork between Indonesian and Singaporean students. Industry exposure includes visits to relevant workplaces, while sustainability initiatives focus on upcycling, reducing single-use plastics, and environmental education.
“We want students not only to exchange cultures but also to become global citizens who care about sustainability issues,” shared an NP representative.
The OIP supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
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SDG 4: Quality Education, by expanding cross-country learning access.
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SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, through community-based projects.
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SDG 13: Climate Action, by promoting eco-friendly practices.
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SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening collaboration between SV UGM and NP.
Dr. Endang Soelistiyowati, M.Pd., Vice Dean for Cooperation and Alumni Affairs of SV UGM, emphasized:
“We hope that OIP not only provides international exposure but also equips students with global awareness to face future challenges,” she stated.
With a spirit of friendship and sustainability, SV UGM and Ngee Ann Polytechnic are committed to making OIP an academic and cultural bridge that contributes to sustainable development.