Universitas PGRI Yogyakarta (UPY) recently held a send-off ceremony for its students participating in the SEA-Teacher program, who will engage in an international teaching exchange in the Philippines. The ceremony took place on January 24, 2025, in the Rectorate Meeting Room, attended by UPY Rector Prof. Dr. Paiman, M.P., and Vice Rector III for Student Affairs, Alumni, and Cooperation, Dr. Septian Aji Permana, M.Pd.
The SEA-Teacher (Southeast Asian Teacher Education) program is an international initiative that offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on teaching experience abroad while broadening their understanding of education across Southeast Asia. This year, UPY is sending students from the Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) program to participate in this exchange in the Philippines.
In his address, UPY Rector Prof. Dr. Paiman encouraged the students with words of motivation. “This is a valuable opportunity to grow, learn new things, and build international connections. We hope you will not only gain teaching experience but also broaden your perspective on the global education landscape,” he said.
Vice Rector III, Dr. Septian Aji Permana, also highlighted the importance of international exposure for students. “Through this program, you won’t just learn from another country, but also share your own knowledge and experiences with peers from across Southeast Asia. It’s a remarkable opportunity to inspire and be inspired,” he stated.
The send-off was also attended by lecturers from the PGSD program, who expressed their full support for the students’ departure. With high spirits and enthusiasm, the UPY students are ready to embark on this journey and return home with valuable experiences to enrich their professional and academic paths.
The SEA-Teacher program is part of UPY’s ongoing commitment to providing global opportunities for its students in facing the challenges of modern education. It is hoped that the participants will not only gain meaningful experiences but also contribute to the advancement of education in Indonesia upon their return.