Fil-Indo Series Students Mobility Program
International Student Exchange Program concludes at UNP
The 28-day Bridging Cultures and Businesses exchange program, held in partnership with Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI), concluded with a culmination activity at the UNP Hostel Function Room hosted by the College of Business Administration and Accountancy. The event marked the end of a month-long stay for five Indonesian students, highlighting the strong academic and cultural ties between Indonesia and the Philippines.
The program officially began with the arrival of the Indonesian delegates and a courtesy call to university officials led by Dr. Erwin Cadorna, UNP President, where both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to fostering international collaboration. Over the course of the exchange, the students actively participated in classroom immersions, attending regular classes with Filipino students to experience Philippine academic life firsthand.
Beyond the classroom, the students engaged in a variety of enriching activities, including educational tours of historical and cultural sites in Ilocos Sur, as well as structured team-building exercises aimed at promoting camaraderie and cross-cultural understanding. A key highlight of the program was the internship experience with local partner businesses and cooperatives, which gave the students practical insights into Philippine business practices.
Another notable feature was the Fil-Indo Think Tank, a collaborative forum where participants exchanged ideas on innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional development. This academic component culminated in the Phil-Indo: Business Case Solution Competition held on May 8, showcasing the students’ analytical and problem-solving skills.
The closing ceremony featured messages of gratitude from the visiting students—Alief Wahyu Alhabib, Nur Badarul Nashiroh, Patricia Diah Ayu Sekar Panastih, Intan Kamiela, and Mega Aulia Utami—who expressed appreciation for the hospitality and valuable learning opportunities they experienced. Filipino student-buddy John Elison Caricungan also shared heartfelt reflections on the cultural bonds and friendships formed throughout the program.
Dr. Jimmi, Head of International Office Affairs of UBSI, delivered a message of thanks, commending the collaboration between both institutions. The event concluded with a mini vlog presentation prepared by the visiting students and closing remarks from Dr. Glenn Paul Briones, UNP International Focal Person, who underscored the significance of building global connections founded on mutual respect and shared learning.
Article by Joshua D. Puller
