Acehnese students and culture at IALF Surabaya

IALF Surabaya continues to provide training for Acehnese students preparing to study in the UK. The 35 participants currently at IALF are lecturers from the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) Ar-Raniry and Syiah Kuala University, Aceh. Their language training in Indonesia is funded through the national coordinating board for reconstruction in Aceh (BRR) and their scholarship to Britain is through the British Universities Scholarship Scheme for Higher Education Institutions in Aceh. This scheme was established in response to the earthquake and tsunami that devastated Aceh in 2004. Many academic staff from IAIN and Syiah Kuala were among the casualties.

The consortium consists of thirteen leading British universities each providing four scholarships. Professor Michael Arthur, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds, which administers the Scheme, visited Aceh in December 2006 and signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize the cooperation between BRR and the Scheme and ensure its successful implementation.

During their time at IALF Surabaya the students organized an Aceh night which was attended by IALF students and staff. The evening included performances of traditional Acehnese dances and songs as well as presentations on history, culture and geography. Acehnese food was also on offer for all to try.

The language training for this group finishes in mid 2007 and successful candidates will head to the UK to begin postgraduate study in September.

Planet English in Aceh

Austcare, Planet Learning and IALF recently cooperated to bring computer-based English language learning to the Austcare office in Aceh. In Aceh there has been an increasing need for people with English language skills to work with international staff on rehabilitation initiatives. The Austcare office decided to provide workplace training in English through the computer-based language learning program Planet English. Planet English is produced by Planet Learning, one of Austcare’s corporate sponsors. The IALF, which has been using Planet English as a teaching and learning resource within its own language centres, provided technical assistance in setting up the program. Hendro Susanto, Computer Services Manager IALF Jakarta, went to Aceh in April to install the program at the Austcare office and train staff on how to use it effectively.

Indonesia Australia Language Foundation

IALF Language Centres in Indonesia: