This year’s courses include two central themes: the Sustainable Development & Ecotourism Summer Course and the Sports & Environment Summer Course. Both programs offer structured academic exploration grounded in real-world questions.

The Sustainable Development & Ecotourism course is led by Dr. Ir. Anak Agung Gde Raka Dalem, M.Sc (Hons), one of Bali’s most respected figures in sustainability education. Our partnership with Dr. Raka dates back to 2018, and his presence continues to shape the intellectual and ethical core of this program. His commitment to connecting environmental theory with social and cultural contexts remains central to the learning experience offered here.

The Sport & Environment course also represents an important development this is the first time the course is being delivered in partnership with Udayana University and coordinated by the Faculty of Medicine. We are honored to work closely with Dr. dr. I Putu Adiartha Griadhi from the Department of Physiotherapy, whose leadership and support have been essential in designing a curriculum that integrates sport science, public health, and environmental awareness.

Following these introductions, the ceremony continued with Laura Korwa, Program Manager of the Upskill Study Program, who welcomed all participants and officially opened the 2025 summer courses. Each student was invited to introduce themselves a simple yet meaningful start that allowed students, lecturers, coordinators, committee members, and support staff to begin getting to know one another. For many, this was the first time meeting in person after months of preparation, and it set the tone for a summer of shared learning and open dialogue.

Laura also expressed heartfelt thanks to those who have contributed to the vision and continued growth of the Upskill Study Program. Special acknowledgements were given to Prof. Dayu Asta, Dr. Raka, and Dr. dr. Adiartha, as well as to the academic departments, administrative partners, and dedicated committee members whose behind-the-scenes efforts continue to make this program possible.

On 29 June, one day before the official opening, the Upskill team welcomed students to their accommodation at The Studios. After long journeys from across the globe, it felt important to offer a welcome that was not only smooth but also thoughtful and celebratory.

To mark their arrival, students were served a traditional nasi tumpeng lunch. More than just a meal, it introduced Indonesia’s cultural diversity in both flavor and meaning. With its vibrant cone of yellow rice and variety of side dishes, nasi tumpeng symbolized gratitude, unity, and abundance values at the core of this program.

Through this shared meal, students were encouraged to reflect on the richness of difference. Just as each part of the dish holds its own story, each person brings a perspective that contributes to a shared learning space built on diversity and connection.

For the Upskill team in Bali, meeting the students in person after months of preparation was a meaningful moment. The welcome lunch and orientation were not only a way to offer guidance, but also a chance to say thank you for being here, for bringing curiosity, and for starting this journey together.

This program offers more than academic learning. It is also a space for reflection, shaped by the experience of being in a new environment. Here, growth often begins through difference whether in a seminar, a field visit, or a simple exchange with someone new.

This is the heart of the Upskill Summer Courses. More than a study program, it is an opportunity to grow through learning, connection, and shared experience.