PURWOKERTO, Indonesia — The English Education Study Program (PBI) at Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto (UMP) has reaffirmed its commitment to student internationalization by sending a cohort of 11 students to the Philippines for the SEA Teacher Outbound Batch XI.
The program, scheduled to run from January 12 to February 8, 2026, partners with four prominent Philippine institutions: Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU), Nueva Ecija State University of Science and Technology (NEUST), and Capiz State University (CAPSU).
This initiative offers students a vital opportunity to gain international exposure, specifically focusing on teaching practicums and immersion in the Philippine education system.
A Cohort of Future Educators
The participating PBI UMP students include Arnesya Nabila, Damar Adi W., Raihan Ramadhan Armayoga, Sarah Az Zahra, Binta Zakia, Ghatsa Luqiana Ismah, Nabila Aulia Putri, Nurul Izzah, Fauzan Nur Sodik, Sidik Ali Sofyan, and Hilman Ikhlasul Amal.
Sarah Az Zahra, one of the selected participants, expressed her gratitude and excitement upon being accepted into the program.
“Finding out I passed the selection felt like a dream come true. It is a joy to have the opportunity to go abroad and learn so many things, especially in the field of education,” Sarah said.
She outlined her high expectations for the month-long program, noting her desire to master teaching methods specific to the Philippines while understanding the local culture and social dynamics.
“This experience will certainly serve as valuable preparation for my self-development and professionalism as a prospective educator,” she added.
Sarah also highlighted the significant role played by the PBI Study Program, noting that the department provided full support, information, and guidance from the initial selection stage through to departure.
Strategic Competence Development
Dodi Siraj Muamar Zain, Ph.D., Head of the English Education Study Program, offered his congratulations to the departing students, framing the trip as more than just travel.
“Student participation in this international program is a strategic opportunity to enhance pedagogical competence, professionalism, and global insight,” Dodi stated.
He further emphasized the importance of adaptability, urging the students to adjust well to the new academic and cultural environments while maintaining the university’s reputation.
“PBI UMP prays that the entire SEA Teacher series runs smoothly and safely, providing valuable experiences for the students’ academic and professional development,” he concluded.(shan)