UNAIR NEWS A student from Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) in Banyuwangi has once again showcased the university檚 active global participation. Bintang Muslimah was chosen as one of only two representatives from Indonesia to attend the U-Go Summit 2025. The event was held from Friday (April 4) to Sunday (April 6) at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa in Da Nang, Vietnam. The summit gathered U-Go Scholarship recipients from countries including the Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, India, Cambodia, Nepal, and Bangladesh, along with international partners.
From writing competition to global conference
Muslimah, a veterinary medicine student, shared that her participation in the international summit stemmed from winning first place in the U-Go Writing Competition organized by the INOTEK Foundation. She submitted an article based on her research and community service project under the Nyubrik initiative.
淚 was one of the authors of the research article and part of the Nyubrik committee. I presented the work in English and answered questions about the community engagement methods, she said.
Showcasing Banyuwangi檚 cultural heritage
A proud native of Banyuwangi, Muslimah also took the opportunity to introduce her local culture to an international audience. She brought a traditional udeng, a headscarf worn by men in Banyuwangi, which captured the interest of fellow delegates. She explained that the Banyuwangi udeng features symmetrical triangles on both sides, symbolizing the need for harmony between humans and God, among fellow humans, and with nature. On the final day of the conference, Muslimah gifted the udeng to U-Go Founder, Mr. John Wood.
淚 was so happy that INOTEK chose me to attend the summit. It was a great learning experience攅specially in how to respect one another, as we all came from different countries and continents, she said.
Through meaningful exchanges, Muslimah gained deeper life lessons and greater confidence. She also recognized the value of being surrounded by a positive and supportive environment that encourages personal growth and the pursuit of dreams. All delegates engaged in sessions with the U-Go board and partner organizations focused on self-development and tackling real-world challenges.
淚 hope the knowledge and insights I gained in Vietnam can be applied in everyday life攁nd inspire other students to pursue similar opportunities, she concluded.
Author: Azhar Burhanuddin
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
