welcoming the SUSS delegation

[Bogor, December 3 2025] – The first day of the IPB–SUSS Interdisciplinary Learning Program officially began on Wednesday, December 3 2025, as SUSS students arrived at Luminor Hotel Bogor in the afternoon. After settling in, the group proceeded to the Pusat Studi Pembangunan Pertanian dan Pedesaan (PSP3) IPB University for the welcoming dinner designed to introduce the students to the academic community, their buddies, and the local culture of Bogor.

The evening opened with warm remarks from Vice Dean of FEMA IPB University, Prof. Dr. Megawati Simanjuntak, S.P., M.Si., who expressed her delight in welcoming the SUSS delegation. She emphasized the importance of cross-cultural learning, collaboration, and meaningful student exchange, encouraging participants to make the most of the week-long activities prepared for them.

A welcoming message was also delivered by Dian Permata, one of the SUSS student representatives, who shared her appreciation for the hospitality shown by IPB students and faculty. She remarked, “Thank you for welcoming us so warmly. We are here not only to learn, but also to build meaningful connections with our buddies, the locals, and everyone we meet throughout this journey.” Her words set a positive tone for the collaborative learning spirit that will shape the rest of the program..

Following the opening remarks, the evening continued with an introduction of the 12 IPB buddies, consisting of undergraduate students from FEMA across batches 58, 59, and 60. These buddies will accompany SUSS students throughout their stay, offering support, cultural insights, and guidance during field activities across Bogor. Their introductions highlighted the diverse backgrounds and academic interests represented within the group.

” Thank you for welcoming us so warmly. We are here not only to learn, but also to build meaningful connections with our buddies, the locals, and everyone we meet throughout this journey.” – Dian Permata, one of the SUSS student representatives-

To break the ice and foster early bonding, the buddies facilitated an interactive activity where participants introduced their names, shared their feelings about the first day, and expressed their first impressions of one another. The room quickly filled with laughter, enthusiasm, and the warmth of new friendships forming across cultural backgrounds.

The welcoming evening concluded with a shared dinner featuring traditional Indonesian dishes, including chicken satay, vegetable soup, and other local favorites. Over the meal, students exchanged stories about their campus lives, cultural experiences, and expectations for the days ahead. The lively conversations reflected the start of genuine connections and mutual curiosity between the two groups.

This first-day gathering at PSP3 marked an encouraging beginning to the program, setting a foundation of openness, camaraderie, and learning. Over the next several days, participants will engage in a series of immersive activities across Bogor, strengthening not only their academic knowledge, but also their cultural understanding and interpersonal connections.