Transitioning from 24 years as a journalist to a full-time academic role has been a transformative journey. When I was appointed head of External Affairs and Linkages at STI West Negros University (STIWNU), I embraced the challenge of leading its internationalization efforts—a cornerstone for academic accreditation and research. This pivotal role required thorough planning and collaboration to build meaningful global partnerships.
Recently, we returned to Indonesia, four months after our initial visit, for another series of collaborative engagements with four esteemed academic institutions. Our team was led by our Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Dr. Mark Molina. We were joined by College of Business Management Dean Dr. Mima Villanueva, College of Information and Communications Technology Dean Dr. Mae Lodana, and student leaders Michael John Javier and Kyrie Meliz Ferrer. Together, we embarked on academic and cultural exchanges that highlighted the strength of international collaboration.
We arrived in Jakarta on November 18 and embarked on a six-hour land journey to Kota Tasikmalaya, West Java. Our first stop was Universitas Cipasung (UnCip), where Dr. Villanueva discussed the role of communication and the use of digital platforms in advancing sustainable social enterprises. Meanwhile, Dr. Lodana discussed cybersecurity best practices for academic and business contexts.
At Universitas Galuh (UniGal) in Ciamis, Dr. Molina delivered an insightful lecture on Brand Management, attended by administrators, university officials, and students. The following day, during the Eurasia Foundation’s International Lectures on “Sustainable Entrepreneurship Education and Training in Asian Community Context,” he was a keynote speaker. He shared STIWNU’s strategies for integrating sustainable entrepreneurship into the academe and its impact on the global stage. We were warmly welcomed by UniGal’s Rector, Prof. Dadi, and Prof. Iskhak from the Directorate of Partnership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship.
It was a joyful moment to reconnect with our friends at UniGal— Rector Prof. Dadi, Prof. Iskhak, Ms. Ratna, Sir Andi, Intani, and Nadia. These individuals have consistently supported our endeavors to provide quality and relevant education for learners. We shared stories, laughter, and meals, and our bond with UniGal’s administrative staff, faculty members, and students deepened. This friendship, formed during our first visit in June, when we conducted international lectures and community extension activities, was further strengthened during this return trip.
Our visit to STAI Putra Galuh, located near UniGal, was equally memorable. Traditional Indonesian music played by students created a festive atmosphere as we were welcomed. Dr. Lodana presented on cyberliteracy and cybersecurity, while Dr. Villanueva shared insights on STIWNU’s academic innovations. I discussed how digital tools can enhance interactive learning and creative instruction. Dr. Molina led a leadership seminar, emphasizing the principles of effective leadership and sharing STIWNU’s journey to becoming one of the 77 autonomous higher education institutions in the Philippines.
Student leaders Javier and Ferrer contributed significantly to the cultural exchange. They introduced Filipino delicacies and shared the rich history and culture of Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. They participated in cultural activities, including traditional batik weaving and discussions about heritage. At UnCip Tasikmalaya, students showcased their culture through martial arts exhibitions, deepening the bond between our institutions.
Meanwhile, at Institut Bisnis dan Informatika (IBI) Kesatuan in Bogor, we delivered lectures on risk communication, digital innovation and sustainability, and the digital economy to students specializing in information, tourism, and business. The intimate classroom setting allowed for meaningful interactions with bright and inquisitive students who expressed genuine appreciation for the insights shared.
Internationalization is more than academic exchange—it is a transformative thrust aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive, quality education. It equips students with global competencies, fosters cross-border research addressing global challenges, and enhances cultural diversity in learning environments. For higher education institutions, embedding internationalization strategies is essential to shaping globally responsible and future-ready graduates and institutions.*
