Two Unnes Lecturers Teach Indonesian Language in China

Two lecturers from the Indonesian Language and Literature Education Programme at Universitas Negeri Semarang (Unnes) have become visiting lecturers at Fuzhou University, China, to teach the Indonesian language. The lecturers are Dr. Imam Baehaqie, from the Master of Indonesian Language Education programme, and Dr. Wati Istanti, from the Indonesian Language and Literature Education programme. “This activity initiates collaboration, particularly in the field of legal language, considering the School of Law at Fuzhou University offers an International Law course,” Wati stated in Semarang on Friday. The two Unnes lecturers were received by the Dean of the Law School at Fuzhou University, Prof. Li Zhi, and the Head of the International Office, Prof. Shao. They carried out their visiting lecturer duties from 30 June to 1 July 2024. Fuzhou University has a law faculty that studies international law, including that of Indonesia. “Introducing Indonesian language and culture to Fuzhou University students is necessary to equip them with an understanding of the legal context,” she said. Meanwhile, Unnes Head of Public Relations Rahmat Petugiran expressed hope that the presence of the two lecturers at Fuzhou University would open up wider academic cooperation. He noted that both Fuzhou University and Unnes share a common concern in developing language science. Unnes, through its Indonesian Language and Literature Programme, has a long track record of strengthening cultural diplomacy through language. In addition to having a Centre for Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA), Unnes has also frequently sent its teaching staff to various countries. During these exchanges, they also teach the Indonesian language at the host universities.