The UGM Faculty of Cultural Sciences orchestrated the much-anticipated LPDP Language Enrichment Program Batch I of 2024, drawing in 37 eager participants from diverse academic backgrounds spanning universities across Indonesia.
The inaugural session of the program, opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Professor Setiadi, unfolded at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences building on Tuesday (Feb. 20).
Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, underscored that the language enrichment program, in collaboration with LPDP, has been ongoing for quite some time.
However, this iteration held a distinct significance as it embraced inclusion by establishing a dedicated class with students with disabilities.
“Truthfully, when entrusted with this task, we had doubts about our capability. Integrating 1 or 2 students with disabilities into regular classes is commonplace, but this initiative holds a unique resonance,” reflected Dr. Saktiningrum.
This cohort of participants encompasses individuals with varying needs. While some grapple with physical disabilities, others contend with socio-psychological challenges and other unique circumstances.
Navigating this diverse landscape poses many challenges for the faculty, according to Dr. Saktiningrum. Consequently, meticulous preparations were laid out to ensure inclusion and accessibility, a process underway for an extended duration.
“As part of our preparatory efforts, we enlisted the assistance of the UGM Disability Services Unit to assess our facilities. Subsequently, we implemented a series of enhancements in alignment with recommendations from the UGM Disability Services Unit,” said Dr. Saktiningrum.
Dr. Aprillia Firmonasari, the Foreign Languages Learning Service Coordinator, elaborated on the composition of the 37-strong cohort participating in the Language Enrichment Program.
Notably, 12 participants, among them individuals with disabilities, are slated to undergo a 6-month IELTS preparatory course. Concurrently, the remaining 25 participants will immerse themselves in a comprehensive 4-month TOEFL training regimen.
“LPDP selected these participants from a pool of thousands of applicants. Those pursuing the IELTS track harbor aspirations of pursuing master’s studies abroad, whereas those focusing on the TOEFL track are poised to further their academic pursuits domestically,” explained Dr. Firmonasari.
Author: Agung Nugroho