UNAIR NEWS – Curiosity, willingness to gain new experiences and share lead Alif Noviana to an international event in Southern Thailand, she joined the exchange program titled International Youth Teacher Exchange Program 2018 (IYTEP).

“The background of this activity, to teach and share knowledge to others convince me to participate. Because I think there are no harms in it “said the student of Faculty of Pharmacy UNAIR.

Among the 40 delegates, Alif is the only one from UNAIR. The first Language Lovers Community (L2C) program in collaboration with Yala Rajabhat University and the Abroad Alumni Association of Southern Border Province Thailand invited the youth to become teachers in educational development. Particularly in formal Islamic educational institutions in Southern Thailand.

They were divided into small groups with 2-4 members. They will be placed in formal Islamic schools in three provinces, Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani.

“I happened to be stationed in Narathiwat Province. I can share knowledge at Pondok Dinniah Islamic School of Narathiwat, ” she said.

“When the team arrived, they (the students, ed) entertained us with a typical sour taste food of Thailand. I was very happy and grateful to be reunited with fellow Muslims in the other hemisphere, ” she added.

Alif added, while she was there, she taught three lessons, Indonesian language, English, and mathematics. In addition, the IYTEP delegation disseminated the methods, knowledge of procedures, to study in Indonesia.

It was welcomed with enthusiasm by the youth of Thailand. After 13 days of effective teaching, there was a closing ceremony and souvenir exchange were held. The atmosphere was solemn and emotional shown reluctance to leave residents in the village of Narathiwat.

“Until now, we are still in touch. We cannot meet directly, but through social media. We should maintain our ties, ” she said.

For Alif, the most memorable activity was when she came to the wedding reception of a school teacher. In fact, in the event, the IYTEP delegation was asked to come to accompany the happy couple to welcome the the guests.

“I was also surprised to find out the bride’s brother works in Indonesia after college in Indonesia,” he said. “To us, the headmaster told us not only to breathe, but also to try to be better than today. No need to succeed, but must be with lillahi ta’ala, “added Alif. (*)

Author: Hilmi Putra Pradana

Editor: Feri Fenoria