Exploring Opportunities and Fostering Cross-Cultural Learning: IISMA Students at University of Portsmouth
UoP’s Faculties of Technology and Business and Law once again had the opportunity to host students from Indonesia in the first semester of the 2023/24 academic year. Funded by the Indonesian Government, the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) (Vocational Scheme) mobilise thousands of students each year to spend one semester at top universities across the world, allowing them to experience new cultures and hone their academic skills. After arriving in Portsmouth in September, the nine scholarship students embarked on a transformative journey, delving into academic excellence, cultural exchange, and immersive learning.
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with colleagues from the IISMA office in Indonesia and our own university to launch the Indonesian International Student Mobility Award programme in our university. The students are exceptional in their academic abilities producing amazing work in our university. I am really delighted that we have been successfully awarded for another round of scholarship in 2024/5.
Cross-cultural perspectives in learning
As part of their academic journey, the students collaborated on a final project that delved into a subject of global significance – a comparative analysis of the electric vehicle industries in the UK and Indonesia. Their research not only showcased their academic prowess but also highlighted the importance of cross-cultural perspectives in addressing contemporary issues.
The students on the Indonesian International Student Mobility Program have been exceptional in their ability to adapt to the UK and integrate with other students in their classes. During their time with us, they studied core modules, visited external organisations and undertook an additional group project. The students were very well supported by academic colleagues in the Faculty of Business and Law and the Faculty of Technology; and the Global Engagement Office.
Learning outside the classroom
An integral part of the IISMA programme is to combine academic studies with industry visits. This year, students visited the Culham Science Centre, the UoP CCIXR and Innovation Space. The visit to the University of Portsmouth's Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality (CCIXR) was one of the highlights of their Portsmouth experience. In this hub of innovation and technology that is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of immersive technologies, the students had the opportunity to explore how video game characters are brought to life in the Motion Capture Studio, were awed by the 144 Canon EOS RP Cameras used to conduct full-body scanning & create 3D imagery in the Photogrammetry & Scanning studio, and also took to the SmartStage® to explore the realm of virtual production and mixed reality.
The University of Portsmouth Career Centre and Innovation Space at Halpern House played a crucial role in guiding students towards future success, offering Careers & Employability support and sharing the various development opportunities available to UoP students, including learning from UoP's Entrepreneurs in Residence and the many events hosted that help give students a competitive edge in the workforce.
Beyond academic pursuits, the Indonesian scholarship students took in the breath-taking views from the Spinnaker Tower, the iconic landmark of the Portsmouth skyline. This cultural excursion not only provided a break from their studies but also allowed them to immerse themselves in the rich history and beauty of the South Coast.
Students’ appreciation of studying and living in Portsmouth
Students’ appreciation of their time in Portsmouth is testimony to the value of student mobility and learning from intercultural encounters.
Participating in the international exchange program at the University of Portsmouth has been a transformative journey, seamlessly intertwining academic enrichment with deep cultural immersion. Learning from diverse perspectives and adapting to a new educational system at the University has significantly broadened my intellectual horizons. Immersing myself in local traditions, languages, and daily life has provided a nuanced understanding of our interconnected world. My time in University of Portsmouth has been a harmonious blend of academic exploration and cultural revelation, shaping me into a more globally conscious and adaptable individual.
Learning in the University of Portsmouth gave me a unique experience that changed my life for the better. The University not only provided me with quality education, but also the chance to challenge me to improve my character. As a student, I met a lot of amazing people that provided me with care and comfort despite being so far away from my home. I believe that the strength of the University lies in uniting people from different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds, and forming global communities is the key to its success.
We are confident that the bond forged between the University of Portsmouth and our Indonesian scholarship students will continue to strengthen, fostering a spirit of collaboration and understanding that transcends borders. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact these students will have on their home universities and communities, armed with the insights and skills they acquired during their time in the UK.
Author: Dr Monika Kraska Birbeck is the BAL Global Engagement and Placement Manager and Molly Sternin is the Global Engagement Coordinator.