The Office of Student Affairs and International Services at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) has successfully completed the Bahasa Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing (BIPA) Volunteering Program, a two-month initiative held from May to June 2025 for the university’s fourth batch of international students.

The program, which aimed to provide international students with beginner-level Indonesian language skills, was conducted through an engaging “language buddy” model, where volunteers served not only as teachers but also as companions in learning. The initiative reflects UIII’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for its diverse community of students.

From the teaching perspective, the program was unique as it was entirely powered by volunteers from within UIII, including students, staff, and academic interns. Ten volunteers contributed their time and energy to teaching, delivering a total of 18 instructional hours across 12 sessions, spread over 10 different classes.

The volunteers included Hanifia Ihza Manila (MA.ECO), Intan Fasya Zahara (MA.EDU), Muhammad Yusuf Fakhri (M.FIN), Fauzia Dwi Sasmita (Academic Intern), Kusdarmawan Nur Ilham (Library Staff), Yulia Fernandita (MA.EDU), Salsabila Syadza Az Zahra (MA.POLS), Kamilatul Farikhah (MA.POLS), Syahlevy Lisando Abadia (MPP), and Teuku Muhammad Valdy Arief (MPP).

As part of the program’s closing, several volunteers were specially recognized for their outstanding contributions: Fauzia Dwi Sasmita was named Best Teacher, Salsabila Syadza Az Zahra received the award for Best Lesson Innovation, Syahlevy Lisando Abadia was honored as Most Impactful Teacher, and Kusdarmawan Nur Ilham was acknowledged as Most Inspiring Teacher.

For international students, the BIPA program provided not just language learning but also cultural immersion. “The classes, supported by the ‘language buddy’ scheme, allowed foreign students to learn everyday Indonesian in a more personal and interactive way. Beyond vocabulary and grammar, the program fostered friendships and deeper understanding between local and international communities on campus,” said Dewi Maryam, MA a staff at Office of Student Affairs and International Services

“This program is a contribution from UIII for UIII,” added M. Yazid, Lc, Head of Office of Student Affairs and International Services. “The enthusiasm of our volunteers and the dedication of our international students created a lively and memorable learning environment.”

The program concluded with a closing ceremony held on August 22, 2025, which celebrated the achievements of both volunteers and students. The gathering encapsulated the essence of academic service, cultural exchange, and personal growth, marking not just the end of a program but also the beginning of lasting connections within UIII’s multicultural community.