The Faculty of Psychology and Education at University Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI) recently concluded a two-month student exchange program with Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Thailand. The program began with a welcoming ceremony on April 23, 2025, and culminated in a heartfelt farewell event on June 16, 2025, held at Room 317C, Faculty of Psychology and Education, UAI.
The six participating students — Barokah Musor, Faisol Doloh, Kareemah Mahileh, Manassanan Chuapudee, Nurhusna Madiyoh, and Nurunisah Sulong — spent two enriching months in Jakarta, engaging not only in academic activities but also in cultural and social experiences alongside UAI students.
Throughout their stay, the PSU students actively engaged in a range of academic activities under the Faculty of Psychology and Education, encompassing the Departments of Islamic Guidance and Counseling, Islamic Education, Psychology, and Early Childhood Teacher Education. They also participated in various student organization initiatives, which provided valuable opportunities to interact and build meaningful connections with UAI’s student community.
A Joyful Welcome to the PSU Delegation
UAI Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Asep Saefuddin, M.Sc., warmly welcomed the exchange students during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of fostering international friendship and mutual learning between Indonesia and Thailand.
“PSU students are our brothers and sisters from a friendly nation,” he said. “This exchange strengthens not only our academic collaboration but also our shared commitment to building harmony among global communities.”
Dean of the Faculty of Psychology and Education, Dr. Drs. Fidesrinur, M.Pd., also shared an overview of UAI’s academic atmosphere and upcoming collaborative plans, including academic participation and field visits to significant cultural and religious sites, such as the Istiqlal Mosque.
A Heartfelt Farewell and Continued Collaboration
The farewell ceremony, led by Vice Dean Abdullah Hakam Shah, Lc., M.A., reflected both joy and gratitude. He expressed appreciation for the PSU students’ contributions during their studies and introduced UAI’s Master’s Program in Educational Psychology as a potential future study pathway.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mohamad Ghozali Moenawar, Lc., M.M., Head of the Office of International Cooperation and Partnership, conveyed the Rector’s gratitude and reaffirmed that the PSU students are now part of the UAI family.
“Please share your experiences at UAI with your loved ones back home,” he said.
During the closing session, UAI presented certificates and souvenirs to the students in appreciation of their participation. One representative also shared reflections on their experience, expressing gratitude for the hospitality and support extended by UAI’s faculty and students.
Building Long-Term Friendship Between Indonesia and Thailand
The two-month exchange program not only provided valuable academic and cultural exposure but also strengthened the long-standing friendship between Indonesia and Thailand through higher education cooperation. The successful completion of this program further underscores UAI’s commitment to promoting global engagement, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence through international partnerships. (DA)