Conducted INTENSE Program Scholarship Information Session, UMKT Opening Study Abroad Opportunities for Students

umkt.ac.id, Samarinda – Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) continues to broaden international opportunities for its students by hosting an information session for the Taiwanese “INTENSE Program” scholarship. The event took place today, March 12, 2026, at the General Sudirman Building (Building G).

Rahmatullah Ayu Hasmiati, Director of UMKT’s OCIA, emphasized the importance of international exposure. "We expect our students to maintain an open-minded perspective and a strong drive to study abroad. This briefing is a vital opportunity for self-development on a global stage," she stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Abdul Halim, Vice Rector for Academic, Quality Assurance, and Student Affairs, urged students to view the scholarship as a gateway to international competitiveness.

"The job market is increasingly demanding. Without constant skill upgrades, career opportunities become limited. Students must seize these platforms to elevate their expertise and step up to the global challenge," Halim asserted.

During the session, M. Eraz Aufarrahman Indrawan detailed the unique advantages of the International Industrial Talents Education Special Program (INTENSE). This initiative by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education is designed to cultivate international talent specifically for the industrial sector. Supporting this is the Intact Base (International Talent Circulation Base), which acts as a strategic bridge connecting Indonesian graduates and universities with Taiwanese higher education and industry.

"The scholarship is uniquely funded through a synergy between the Taiwanese government, partner universities, and associated corporations," Eraz explained. The program focuses on high-demand strategic fields, including STEM, semiconductors, and finance.

In addition to scholarship details, students were introduced to dual-degree opportunities and the Yushan Mandarin Course — a dedicated Chinese language platform designed to support students' academic and professional readiness before arriving in Taiwan.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session. Through such initiatives, UMKT reaffirms its commitment to producing alumni with global competence, broadening academic networks, and contributing to the advancement of the global industrial landscape.

Author: Raisha Azzahro

Translator: M. Rafly Raihandy