On the sunny morning of January 16, 2024, BINUS Overseas Program opened its doors with warm greetings to 38 enthusiastic students from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) @Senayan Campus. These students had traveled all the way to Jakarta to participate in an exciting internship program known as the Global Business Practicum (GBP), an integral part of their curriculum. Every year, UNSW students enrolled in the GBP have the opportunity to explore various cities across Asia, and Jakarta was among the enticing choices for this year’s cohort.

The diverse group of students included both postgraduate and undergraduate scholars, each brimming with anticipation as they embarked on their academic journey at BINUS. The day kicked off with a delectable lunch featuring traditional Sundanese cuisine, offering the students a taste of Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage and a warm welcome to the local culture.

Following this delightful culinary experience, the guests dove into two enlightening classes specially designed to provide them with valuable insights into Indonesia’s dynamic business landscape. The first session, titled “Doing Business in Indonesia,” was led by Dr. Marko Hermawan, a seasoned expert in the field. Dr. Hermawan brought his wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront, guiding the students through the intricacies of conducting business in Indonesia.

In this engaging session, UNSW students were introduced to the multifaceted nature of Indonesia’s business environment. They explored the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when conducting business in a diverse and rapidly evolving economy like Indonesia. Dr. Hermawan shared real-world examples and case studies, enabling the students to grasp the nuances of Indonesian business culture, etiquette, and practices. The session was not only informative but also interactive, encouraging lively discussions and fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

The visit of these international students from UNSW to Jakarta is a testament to the thriving academic and cultural exchange that institutions like BINUS facilitate. It highlights the importance of global perspectives and cross-cultural experiences in today’s interconnected world. As the Global Business Practicum unfolds over the coming weeks, the students are poised to gain valuable hands-on experience, forge lasting connections, and contribute to their academic and personal growth.