Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) once again demonstrates its commitment to educational excellence and global exposure through its student exchange program, with Dhivanka Puteri Aziza, a seventh-semester Chemical Engineering student, currently participating. Dhivanka is undertaking this exchange program at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) in Brunei Darussalam. Running from July to December 2024, the program offers Dhivanka the opportunity to experience the academic and cultural environment at one of Southeast Asia's prestigious universities.

Life at UBD and The Core

Located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei Darussalam, Dhivanka resides at The Core, an apartment complex specifically for international students from UBD, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), and Politeknik Brunei. Daily life at UBD presents its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of mobility. "Due to the vast area of UBD's campus, I have to walk from the apartment to get to my classes," Dhivanka explains.

Despite this, the experience has become an integral part of Dhivanka's adventure in Brunei. The expansive and green campus environment enhances her learning experience and provides opportunities for closer interaction with peers from various countries.

Academics and Research: Focus on Plastic Waste Pyrolysis

During her time at UBD, Dhivanka is enrolled in 16 credits covering courses such as Product Design Engineering, Chemistry of the Environment, and Final Year Project. Her Final Year Project research, supervised by Dr. Muhammad Roil Bilad, focuses on plastic waste pyrolysis. This research will later be converted into the Chemical Engineering Research course at ITK.

Plastic waste pyrolysis is a highly relevant topic amid global environmental issues, allowing Dhivanka to delve into research with positive societal impact. "Under the guidance of Dr. Muhammad Roil Bilad, I've learned a lot about scientific approaches to tackling environmental problems through pyrolysis technology. This experience is incredibly valuable to me," she says.

Enriching Cultural and Social Experiences

Among the events Dhivanka has attended are the Indonesian Independence Day celebration on August 17, the PPIBD New Management General Assembly on August 18, and the International Student Welcoming Party on August 24. Dhivanka also participated in a seminar on the history of the periodic table presented by Prof. Dr. Stephen Ashworth on August 21.

In addition to strengthening ties with Indonesian students, Dhivanka has met peers from countries such as China, Japan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Malaysia, and Singapore. "This experience is truly invaluable and will not be wasted. Meeting new people, studying courses outside of Chemical Engineering, and observing and emulating the research culture here provide new perspectives that are very valuable for my personal development," Dhivanka shares.

Exploring Potential and Building the Future

Dhivanka's experience in Brunei Darussalam is not only about academics but also about developing herself as a well-rounded individual ready to face global challenges. ITK is proud of students like Dhivanka who continue to make an impact on the international stage, uphold the institution's reputation, and gain invaluable knowledge and experience.

Such student exchange programs not only open new horizons for students but also strengthen international collaboration between ITK and universities around the world. It is hoped that Dhivanka's experience will inspire more ITK students to seize opportunities and pursue their global aspirations.