Ruvarashe Rambwawasvika, affectionately known as Ruru, arrived in Yogyakarta in late October last year, carrying not only her luggage but also a wealth of experience and a clear vision for her future.
The 26-year-old master’s student from Zimbabwe has now embarked on her academic journey at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) with the support of the prestigious Developing Countries Partnership (KNB) scholarship.
Ruru earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Zimbabwe and subsequently worked as a Biosafety Officer at the National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe for nearly two years. This experience strengthened her commitment to public health and solidified her intention to deepen her expertise.
The KNB scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses and requires a preparatory period to study the Indonesian language and culture. Ruru’s decision to continue her studies at UGM was based on research and recommendations.
“I considered other universities in Indonesia through friends and social media, but UGM’s Biology program has a strong reputation,” she said on Friday (Aug. 15) at the UGM campus.
In addition to online research, she sought advice from her friends about life and culture in Indonesia. According to her, the environment in Indonesia is very peaceful and conducive to academic pursuits, which reinforced her decision to study further at UGM.
Transitioning from a country with four seasons to a warm tropical climate certainly required adjustment, but Ruru welcomed it with open arms. She praised the friendliness of the local community and their willingness to help.
Language presented a challenge, as most classes are conducted in Indonesian; however, lecturers allow assignments and exams to be submitted in English.
“The gradual language learning process also eased the adaptation,” she explained.
Culinary experiences have provided both comfort and adventure for Ruru during her stay in Yogyakarta. In her home country, the staple food is fufu (sadza) made from white maize.
Although difficult and expensive to obtain in Yogyakarta, she sometimes receives supplies from a friend in Malang. Ruru also enjoys cooking with her roommate from Malawi and occasionally has lunch on campus, savoring Indonesian dishes such as fried rice.
“It tastes sweet at first, but over time I’ve grown to like it,” she said.
Ruru’s academic interest focuses on parasitology with a biomedical orientation. Her undergraduate research examined the prevalence of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis, two types of blood parasites in dogs.
She observes that, compared to studies on viruses, bacteria, and fungi, parasitology, particularly blood- and water-related parasites, receives relatively little attention.
Over the next two years at UGM’s Faculty of Biology, she aims to develop skills in biochemistry and molecular laboratory methods, leveraging Indonesia’s rich biodiversity for comparison with Zimbabwe.
Like many international students, Ruru initially experienced homesickness, but strong community support and daily routines helped her adapt. Her most rewarding moments so far have been the sense of friendship and consistent support from friends and lecturers.
“Lecturers and peers on campus have been very supportive,” she noted.
Upon completing her master’s degree, Ruru plans to return to Zimbabwe to become a researcher and lecturer, ideally at her alma mater.
She hopes to contribute to the development of her department, enhance environmental management practices, and collaborate with organizations such as Zimbabwe’s environmental management agencies.
Ruru’s journey pursuing a master’s at UGM reflects the power of academic exchange, cross-cultural adaptability, and strong determination.
As she engages in laboratory and classroom activities at UGM, Ruru is not only building her own future but also paving the way for closer scientific collaboration between Zimbabwe and Indonesia.
Author: Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographs: Ruru Rambwawasvika