Australian Development Studies and Journalism Students Experience Work and Life in Indonesia

People-to-people links between Australia and Indonesia received a boost this month with the commencement of a new student exchange program aimed at providing development studies students in Australia the opportunity to work and experience life in Indonesia through the study of Indonesian language and a four week internship program.

The Development Studies Professional Practicum, run by the Australian Consortium for “In Country” Indonesian Studies (ACICIS), runs from 4 January to 12 February and offers the opportunity for students to gain experience working in the field of international development, while at the same time learning about development issues in Indonesia.

The pilot program is being run in parallel with the Journalism Professional Practicum, now in its third consecutive year and which provides journalism students the opportunity to work in the media sector in Indonesia.

Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer, congratulated ACICIS and its Indonesian partners, particularly Atma Jaya University, on the programs at a reception in Jakarta today.

“These programs provide a valuable opportunity for Australian university students to learn more about Indonesia and develop contacts and experience in their professional fields,” Ambassador Farmer said.

The two programs will see almost 40 students placed in over 20 different organisations in Jakarta operating in the media and development sector with students given the opportunity to enhance their understanding of how theories translate into practice.

“We hope students will gain a deeper personal understanding and appreciation of Indonesia and, through this program, develop a life-long interest in Indonesia as an important neighbour, partner and friend,” said Mr Farmer.

Mr Eko Widodo, ACICIS Coordinator at Atma Jaya, said he was very proud and honoured that Atma Jaya University had again been trusted to participate in this program.

“This is a unique and real program that gives opportunities for Australian students to get to know Indonesia and Indonesians at the grass-roots level,” Mr Widodo said.

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