As a part of the internationalization program at Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), the International Office (IO) holds an event called the Geography Series, which is called the G-Series. This event enables international students to introduce his/her country through a presentation. In addition the G-Series acts as a medium of interaction between international and local students. UNHAS local students have an opportunity to exercise their foreign language skills, English in particular. The G-Series in this month was carried out on Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 2-4pm at LaTanro Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Economic and Business (FEB). Two of three students from Madagascar were given a chance of facilitating the event. Their names are Giovanni Rabibisoa (Master’s Degree in Informatics) and Ramianrisoa Robusta Arnold (Bachelor in Management). The event was moderated by Muhammad Anugrah (Student Apprentice at IO)
Giovanni began his presentation by asking audiences to stand up for his country’s national anthem. He then continued with many slides showing his country’s population, culture, traditional music, food, clothes, etc. As his slides were shown more interactively, the audience kept their eyes to him. Despite the fact that he spoke quite softly. The arrangement of his slides indeed embraced the important point from his country. Giovanni shared the presentation with his colleague, Robusta. The IO paid attention to his performance. He improved confidence and language skill a lot compared to his first arrival time in the university.
The event continued with a Question and Answer (QA). Giovanni invited other Madagascar students to answer the questions given to them. One of the questions raised was whether Madagascar is a part of the African Continent. Giovanny responded to the question uniquely. He said that Madagascar is an island and not a part of the continent. The Madagascar people, however, would answer they are African when asked about their continent’s origin.
Before ending the G-Series, the moderator invited Robusta to present one song for all participants. This was the first time in the G-Series presentation, the international students sang a song of You Raise Me Up by Josh Groban in two different languages. The Madagascar lyrics made the song sound more unique and amazing. The G-Series came to an end with a token presentation to the presenter by Andi Masyitha Irwan, Ph.D (Head of IO). While handing the token to Giovanni, Ms. Masyitha conveyed her gratitude towards the Madagascar presentation and reminded the participants to keep their eyes on the IO G-Series which would be held monthly. The Head of IO and her staff, the Madagascar students and all participants took a photo session and went home. See you next month with a different presentation!
