
ICAC 2026 at UMS Brings a Cultural Mosaic from 30 Countries
UMS held ICAC 2026, attended by 155 participants from 30 countries and 50 universities, as a platform for international students to exchange cultures and celebrate diversity.
Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) welcomed students from the Student Exchange Program SEA Teacher of Cavite State University, Philippines, on Wednesday (8/1/2025), at the Rectorate Meeting Room, 6th Floor, Siti Walidah Building, UMS.
Vice Rector V of UMS, Prof. Supriyono, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., expressed his appreciation for the arrival of five student delegates and two professors, Dr. Ammie P. Ferrer and Dr. Roselyn A. Ymana, both serving as Deans of the College of Education at Cavite State University, Philippines.
“Welcome to our colleagues from the Philippines. This program is a testament to the strong relationship between UMS and Cavite State University, including the exchange of students for international mobility programs,” he stated.
He also explained that the program aims to broaden students' perspectives on cultural diversity and enhance cross-cultural understanding.
“Through this exchange program, students not only gain academic knowledge but also experience the culture and daily life of another country,” he added.
Prof. Supriyono introduced UMS as a leading private university with 12 faculties, including the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), one of the largest faculties at UMS.
“We strongly encourage our students to participate in international mobility programs and interact with students from different countries,” he emphasized.
The international students at UMS will undergo an exchange program that includes academic and cultural experiences.
On this occasion, Dr. Koesoemo Ratih, Head of the UMS Office of Learning Innovation (BIP), stated that UMS welcomed the delegation from Cavite State University, Philippines, as part of the 2025 SEA Teacher Program.
“Alhamdulillah, today we are welcoming two deans and five students who will be undertaking teaching practice at UMS,” she said.
This student exchange program, she continued, is part of a collaboration that takes place routinely every year. In early 2025, UMS had already sent students to several universities in the Philippines.
“Then, in return, a delegation of students from the Philippines also participated in the Teaching Practice program at UMS,” he added.

Group photo of UMS with the delegation from Cavite State University, Philippines, in the Rectorate Meeting Room on the 6th floor of the Siti Walidah Main Building at UMS, Wednesday (8/1/2025). UMS PR
The student delegation from the Philippines consists of three study programs: English Education, Early Childhood Education, and Biology Education. For about one month, they will conduct teaching practice sessions at several UMS partner schools, including SMP Muhammadiyah 7 Surakarta and TK Aisyiyah.
According to Koesoemo, this program is designed to help students develop their pedagogical skills, gain cross-cultural experience, and build international connections.
“It is hoped that this program will not only improve the quality of education at UMS, but also provide valuable life experiences for the students, both academically and socially,” he explained.
“I hope this activity runs smoothly until the end and becomes a positive step in enhancing the quality of UMS graduates as well as the exchange participants,” Koesoemo concluded.
Sri Indra Kurnia, S.K.M., MPH, Head of Student Mobility and Hospitality at the Office of Collaboration and International Affairs (BKUI) of UMS, also expressed her gratitude and pride over the arrival of the participants of the education exchange program.
“I hope you all enjoy this experience, and don’t forget to explore Solo, a city full of uniqueness and culture,” she said.
Writer: Fika
Translator: Rizal
Editor: Genis
Source: News UMS

UMS held ICAC 2026, attended by 155 participants from 30 countries and 50 universities, as a platform for international students to exchange cultures and celebrate diversity.
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