Surakarta, May 28, 2025 — Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) held a Welcoming & Orientation Day to officially welcome 19 new international students from various countries who will begin their academic journey at UMS in the 2025/2026 academic year. The two-day event, held on May 27–28, 2025, reflects UMS’s commitment to supporting international students through their transition and creating a friendly, inclusive, and globally minded academic environment.
The first day took place in the BPH Meeting Room, located in the Siti Walidah Main Building. The event was officially opened by UMS Vice Rector V, Prof. Supriyono, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., and the Head of the Office of Collaboration and International Affairs (BKUI), Andy Dwi Bayu Bawono, M.Si., Ph.D., who warmly welcomed the new students and emphasized the important role international students play in enriching the academic atmosphere of UMS.
Following the opening remarks, the students received an introduction to the university and Muhammadiyah values, presented by Prof. Ihwan Susila, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D. The day continued with a legal and safety briefing delivered by representatives from the Surakarta and Sukoharjo Police Departments. The students also learned about UMS’s academic system from the Academic Administration Bureau, and were introduced to the university’s library services. The first day concluded with a session led by UMS Buddy, where students were introduced to student organizations and support groups that will help them integrate into campus life.
The second day was held in the Seminar Room of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB). The day began with an introduction to the Office of Collaboration and International Affairs, delivered by Sri Indra Kurnia, M.P.H., Head of Student Mobility & Hospitality. This was followed by a session on the BIPA Program (Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers), presented by the UMS Language Center (LBIPU). Students were also introduced to the UMS Student Islamic Boarding House (PESMA).
Later, all international students participated in the official signing of their academic contracts, marking their formal commitment to their studies at UMS. The orientation ended with a city tour led by UMS Buddy, where students explored areas around the campus and the city of Surakarta — giving them a chance to get to know their new environment and connect with their peers.
The international students showed great enthusiasm and engagement throughout the two-day event. Not only did they gain essential information regarding academic and campus life, but they also began forming social connections and building a sense of belonging within the UMS community.
Through this orientation, UMS hopes to provide a strong and supportive start to each student’s academic journey. The Welcoming & Orientation Day serves as a vital first step in ensuring that international students have a meaningful, inclusive, and empowering experience at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta.
