Palopo & Rongkong, June 14, 2026 — Cultural exchange, transnational dialogue, and the strengthening of global perspectives marked the participation of the International Office of UIN Alauddin Makassar in the Global Cultural Immersion Program (GCIP). Organized by UIN Palopo from June 11 to 14, 2026, the program took place across various locations in Palopo City and the Rinding Allo Traditional Village, Rongkong District, North Luwu Regency. The initiative served as a strategic platform for students to engage in mutual learning, interact dynamically, and experience the rich local cultural heritage of South Sulawesi firsthand.
The program brought together international and Indonesian students from UIN Alauddin Makassar, UIN Palopo, Hasanuddin University, Bosowa University, and Palopo Muhammadiyah University. Representing eight countries—Thailand, Sudan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Timor-Leste, Syria, and Indonesia—the participants created a vibrant interactive space that united diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, and experiences into a shared learning environment.
The program commenced with an opening ceremony integrated with an academic seminar session. On this occasion, the Head of the International Office of UIN Alauddin Makassar, Dr. Serliah Nur, M.Hum., M.Ed., who is also a lecturer in English Language Education, served as a keynote speaker, delivering a presentation titled Cross-Cultural Understanding for Global Citizenship.
In her presentation, Serliah emphasized the critical importance of cross-cultural understanding in the era of globalization. She explained that the ability to comprehend cultural diversity, build cultural awareness, and adapt to differences—including navigating culture shock—constitutes essential skills for developing global citizens capable of coexisting harmoniously in a diverse world. “When you’re in Rome, do as the Romans do. To be a global citizen, we do not need to abandon our own culture. Instead, we learn to respect, understand, and adapt to other cultures while maintaining our identity,” Serliah stated.
Following the academic session, participants alongside students from various countries learned to prepare kapurung (a traditional local dish) and embarked on a heritage tour. This tour included visits to a local mosque, church, and the Luwu Royal Kingdom complex, aimed at introducing cultural diversity, history, and the values of tolerance embedded within the local community.
On the second day, participants traveled to Rongkong District, where they were welcomed with traditional greeting dances and observed the authentic process of making traditional handwoven fabrics. This activity established a meaningful learning space where local culture converged with international perspectives.
The series of activities continued with a community service visit to a local primary school on June 13, 2026, and concluded with a grand cultural performance featuring a diverse array of art and cultural showcases. The closing event involved students, art communities, and international participants, including performances from Cokroaminoto Palopo University, the art troupe of the Rinding Allo Traditional Village, a Fan Dance presented by Thai students, dance performances by Sudanese and Syrian students, and musical performances by students from Pakistan and Timor-Leste. These varied showcases provided a space for cultural dialogue that strengthened camaraderie while celebrating the diverse traditions of different nations and regions.
Participation in the GCIP reflects the continuous efforts of the International Office of UIN Alauddin Makassar to expand its international network while providing impactful cross-cultural learning experiences for students. Through direct engagement with diverse cultures and communities, this program is expected to foster a spirit of global citizenship and reinforce the role of UIN Alauddin Makassar in driving an inclusive and sustainable campus internationalization agenda.
