Mataram, University of Mataram – On Thursday, 14 November 2024, the University of Mataram (Unram) and Poltekpar Lombok joined forces to enhance tourism education for visiting students from Shangrao Normal University as part of an inbound student mobility program. This collaboration was designed to provide practical, hands-on learning experiences in hospitality and tourism while fostering a deeper cultural connection between Indonesia and China. The visiting students were also accompanied by international student buddies from Unram.

Welcoming the group, Dr. Ali Muhtassom, A.Md., MM., CHCM. CHE., Director of Poltekpar Lombok, extended a warm greeting to the ten student representatives from Shangrao Normal University. He was joined by Mr. Li Yang, Director of Student Affairs, and Ms. Yu Chunying, Staff of International Affairs at Shangrao Normal University. In his opening remarks, Dr. Muhtassom conveyed his hopes that the students would find the program both enjoyable and enriching, emphasizing that Poltekpar Lombok is committed to making tourism education a meaningful experience. He also expressed gratitude to Unram for supporting this initiative, which is part of a collaborative agreement between the institutions, formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2022.

The day began with an orientation session led by M. Tanggap Sasmita, SST.Par., M.Par., CHE., who provided an insightful introduction to Poltekpar Lombok’s facilities and study programs. Following this, Mr. Oktomi Harja, S.Par., MM., presented an engaging session on Introduction to Gastronomy, where students were introduced to Indonesia’s vibrant culinary culture. This session highlighted Indonesia’s culinary diversity and its significance within the global hospitality industry.

Adding a festive note, Poltekpar Lombok students showcased local culture through a captivating talent performance, sparking excitement and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The program then transitioned into a hands-on culinary experience, as the visiting students were guided through a campus tour that allowed them to try their hand at crafting hotel-quality desserts and Japanese-style tea dishes. Under the guidance of Poltekpar instructors, the students eagerly immersed themselves in decorating desserts and preparing food presentations in line with industry standards.

The visiting students responded with enthusiasm to each activity, fully engaging in the learning experiences and enjoying the collaborative environment. Their excitement and curiosity underscored the success of this cultural exchange, which blended professional skill-building with genuine cross-cultural connection. This program represents a key achievement in the ongoing partnership between the University of Mataram and Poltekpar Lombok. Since the signing of the MoU in 2022, both institutions have worked to create opportunities that foster international collaboration, enriching tourism education through hands-on experiences that bridge cultures and expand perspectives.