MBA FEB UGM welcomed international students through its Welcoming International Students program on Monday, August 10, 2026. The program was designed to introduce students to the academic environment, learning experience, and facilities that will support them throughout their studies at MBA FEB UGM.
The program began with a campus tour, giving students an opportunity to explore and become familiar with the facilities available at MBA FEB UGM. Following the tour and a shared lunch, the students attended an introduction to the MBA FEB UGM program delivered by Luluk Lusiantoro, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D., Deputy Director of Yogyakarta Campus. During the session, Luluk introduced the MBA program, its curriculum, and learning environment, highlighting leadership, business, and sustainability as key pillars of the program.
“Our mission is to nurture future-ready leaders who can foster sustainability. Leadership, business, and sustainability are three key elements of our program,” said Luluk.
He also highlighted the importance of developing critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration, and sustainability leadership. International students were encouraged to actively participate in the learning process while embracing the cultural and academic differences they may encounter during their time at UGM.
The program continued with remarks from Prof. Bjørn-Tore Flåten, who encouraged the students to see their international study experience as more than an opportunity to gain academic knowledge. He emphasized that studying abroad also provides valuable opportunities to build global networks, experience new cultures, and learn from real-world situations. He highlighted the spirit of growing together and rowing together as an important part of their shared learning journey.
“We are in the same boat. We want to change the world for the better, and we need to support one another along the way. We grow and learn together,” said Prof. Flåten.
He further encouraged students to connect what they learn in the classroom with the realities they encounter in society and professional settings. Interacting with peers from different countries, he noted, can also help students build relationships that may develop into lasting friendships and future professional collaborations.
Meanwhile, Prof. Amin Wibowo, S.E., M.B.A., Ph.D., Director of Yogyakarta Campus, reaffirmed MBA FEB UGM’s commitment to providing a supportive academic environment for international students. He highlighted the availability of lecturers, learning facilities, and discussion spaces to support students throughout their academic journey.
“We will do our best to provide you with excellent lecturers, facilities, and an academic environment that supports your learning. If you encounter any concerns or issues during your studies, please let us know,” said Prof. Amin.
Prof. Amin also encouraged students to actively engage in classroom discussions and learning activities. He emphasized that class participation is an essential part of the MBA learning experience, where students are expected not only to understand the course material but also to share their perspectives, raise questions, and exchange ideas with their peers.
Following the program introduction, welcoming remarks, and Q&A session, the international students continued their activities at FEB UGM, where they were welcomed by Bayu Sutikno, S.E.,M.S.M., Ph.D. and Dr. Rr. Tur Nastiti, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D. as part of the faculty-level international student welcoming program.
Through this program, MBA FEB UGM aims to help international students become familiar with their new academic environment from the beginning of their studies, build meaningful connections within the academic community, and gain a valuable cross-cultural learning experience during their time at Universitas Gadjah Mada.
Reporter: Teguh Faturrahman, Azzumar P
Editor: Ayu Aprilia
