The spirit of collaboration and internationalization was strongly reflected in the Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) organized by the International Relations Office (IRO) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik for PTMA students who will participate in international internship programs in Thailand. Conducted online, this activity highlighted UMG’s active role in opening global opportunities and international experiences for Muhammadiyah students across Indonesia.
This PDO was attended by students from various Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMA) who will be placed in Yala and Loei, Thailand. Participants for the Yala internship program came from Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik, Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo (UMPO), Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo (UMSIDA), Universitas Muhammadiyah Barru (UMBARA), and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya. Meanwhile, participants for the Loei program came from Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palopo, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sorong, and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya.
The PDO was led directly by the Head of IRO UMG, Paulina, S.Pd., M.Pd., who provided important briefings related to cultural adaptation, international communication, professional ethics, and teaching readiness in international environments. In her remarks, she emphasized that international internship programs are not only about gaining overseas experience, but also about becoming the best representatives of their universities, Muhammadiyah values, and Indonesia on the global stage.
“Through this program, students are expected not only to gain international experience, but also to build global connections, improve adaptability, and bring positive Indonesian values into international environments,” she stated during the PDO session.
The enthusiasm of participants was evident throughout the program. More than just a preparation session, the PDO also became a collaborative space for PTMA students from different regions of Indonesia before beginning their international journey in Thailand.
Through this initiative, Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik once again demonstrated its commitment as a university actively strengthening international networks and collaboration among PTMA institutions. Carrying the spirit of “Go Global Together,” participants are expected to confidently carry out their internships, adapt to multicultural environments, and create positive impacts as representatives of Indonesian students in the international community.