UNHAS and Barru Government Collaborate to Host International Students for Ramadan Cultural Journey
The International Office (IO) of Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) conducted a formal courtesy call to the Regency Government of Barru on Thursday, 26 February 2026. Held at the Regent’s Office, the UNHAS delegation was led by Muhammad Ridwan, M.A. (Secretary of IO), accompanied by Dra. Harniati, Nur Ikhsan, M.Hum, and Nasrah, M.Hum. The team was warmly welcomed by the Vice Regent, Dr. Abustan A. Bintang, along with other high-ranking local officials.
The primary objective of this visit was to discuss a specialized “Home Stay” program designed for international students. This initiative aims to provide students with a deep cultural immersion, allowing them to explore and experience the authentic life of the Bugis and Makassar communities during the holy month of Ramadan. During the meeting, Dr. Abustan expressed his gratitude for the visit, highlighting the long-standing synergy between the Barru Government and UNHAS, which is already physically evident in the Vocational Studies building located adjacent to the Regent’s Office.
In detailing the program, Mr. Ridwan explained that the homestay would involve six international students paired with three local students who will act as cultural companions. Over the course of a two-night stay, these students will be hosted by three selected local families. To ensure the program’s success and sustainability, the International Office of UNHAS committed to providing full financial backing for the duration of the students’ stay in the village.
To provide the best possible experience, Vice Regent Dr. Abustan designated Paccekke as the host location. Known as a “Tourism Village” with previous experience in international projects, Paccekke is considered the ideal setting for such a cultural exchange. The Vice Regent even personally contacted the Head of Paccekke Village to begin identifying the three host families, one of which will be the family of the Village Head themselves.
The courtesy call concluded on a high note with a symbolic exchange of tokens between the UNHAS IO and the Barru Government. This meeting marks a significant step in strengthening internationalization efforts at the grassroots level, blending academic goals with the rich heritage of South Sulawesi.