A Living Laboratory for Global Learning

The program was opened with a series of heartfelt speeches by academic leaders and program partners. Sukma Sushanti, head study program of the upskill study for FISIP Udayana, set the tone with words of welcome, emphasizing the importance of human connection across cultures. This was followed by the Dean of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Nengah Punia, who delivered a visionary message about the role of intercultural education in today’s globalized world.

“We are not only sharing space, but sharing ideas through classroom discussions, field visits, and real encounters with Balinese society,” he stated. “This course is not just about theory, but about placing yourself in the living reality of culture, belief, and identity.”

Delivered in English, the course is facilitated by scholars, cultural practitioners, and local experts who bring both academic and lived experience to the classroom. Over the next four weeks, students will examine topics such as communal space, transnational migration, political ecology, traditional rituals, and Lontar manuscript preservation all while navigating real-life intersections of Balinese culture and global transformation.

A Symbolic and Meaningful Opening

Representing the Upskill Study Program, Laura Korwa expressed gratitude for the long-standing cooperation between institutions. In her speech, she reflected on the meaningful journey that this collaboration has offered to all involved over the years.

“This course is more than a program, it's an invitation to see and feel what it means to live within and learn from another culture. We are grateful for this community and for the trust built over time.” Laura also introduced each of the six Cardiff University students to the forum, highlighting their presence as both learners and contributors in this shared experience.

The ceremony concluded with a symbolic Nasi Tumpeng ritual, where the Dean presented the first portion of the traditional cone-shaped rice dish to Laura. This gesture, deeply rooted in Indonesian custom, signified respect, gratitude, and the ceremonial opening of the academic journey ahead. The event continued with a shared lunch and group photo session capturing the early moments of what promises to be a transformative summer.

Following the welcome event, students attended their first Indonesian language class with lecturer Ibu Arpiwi. The energy in the classroom was light yet focused, as students began to immerse themselves not only in new vocabulary, but in the rhythm and nuances of Balinese communication. This experiential approach to learning combining lectures, workshops, and field-based immersion reflects the philosophy of Upskill Study Program and its partners: education that is rooted in respect, reflection, and real-world application.

Why Study Intercultural Communication in Bali?

Bali, often romanticized for its natural beauty, is also a microcosm of global dynamics, making it a powerful site for academic exploration. As a cultural melting pot shaped by local philosophy and international influence, it offers students a chance to interrogate the realities of globalization not from a distance, but from within.

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Udayana University offers not only academic rigor but also access to lived experiences, from temple ceremonies and village councils to contemporary issues of tourism, climate, and identity.

For international students seeking a meaningful, human-centered study abroad experience in Indonesia, this summer course provides an interdisciplinary lens through which to understand tradition, politics, and social change.

Interested in joining future courses?

Explore upcoming short-term academic programs in sustainability, sport, culture, and social sciences with Upskill Study. If you're considering applying, Upskill can also assist you with funding opportunities including guidance on how to apply and access to relevant scholarship links, see our article on funding your study here. Reach out to us directly to learn how you can study in Bali and become part of a global community dedicated to immersive, purposeful learning.