The offered diverse programs also eliminate the boundaries of subjects and interests. Therefore, now is the time for students to free themselves from restrictive barriers.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Anwar Makarim has dispatched 970 Indonesian students to participate in exchange programs at 59 world-class universities in 28 countries.

"I congratulate the 970 students from 98 universities in Indonesia who have passed the selection program of the Indonesia International Student Mobility Award (IISMA)," Makarim said in the virtual dispatch to the IISMA’s 2021 awardees on Monday.

"In 2021 and 2022, they will take part in an exchange program at 59 world-class universities in 28 countries. It is amazing," he added

This batch of students are part of the first IISMA organized by the Education Ministry. Through the program, Indonesian students can realize their dreams of attending leading universities, developing cross-cultural skills, strengthening global networks, and preparing themselves for the working world, he stressed.

Makarim further added that the students’ achievements are exceptional, because they were selected from 2,551 candidates who participated in the program throughout Indonesia.

"It is proof that although we are living in a time of limitations, the opportunity is still there," he said, adding that through the Kampus Merdeka program, the ministry aims to free students from the limitations of learning.

Currently, there are no more academic restrictions, because all programs of Kampus Merdeka are worth 20 credits. For funding, all its participants received aid from the Finance Ministry's Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP), he further said.

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“In addition, the diverse selection of programs also eliminate the boundaries of subjects and interests. Therefore, now is the time for students to free themselves from restrictive barriers,” he explained.

"Especially, if you are an IISMA scholarship recipient, try something new. Make friends with new people and bring home knowledge and experiences that are beneficial to yourself and your surroundings," Makarim said.

The scholarship is a collaboration between the Ministry of Education and LPDP, and students are given the opportunity to enrich their knowledge for one semester on four continents, he continued.

It is an effort to accelerate, strengthen and open opportunities for students to study abroad at world-renowned universities to gain a great learning experience, to build their self-confidence and international networks, he said.

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Translator: Indriani, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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