Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) is once again holding its Global Outreach Program to South Korea from February 1–9, 2026. It is a series of educational trips designed to build graduates who are internationally minded, globally competitive, and possess a mature cross-cultural mindset. The program begins with a departure from Malang to Seoul via Incheon International Airport.
From day one, students enter a truly global learning space, experiencing firsthand the dynamics of international travel, cultural adaptation, and interaction in a multinational environment as part of comprehensive international exposure. Upon arrival in South Korea, they undergo a series of cultural immersion experiences, introducing Korea's natural landscape, history, and traditions. Visits to Nami Island and the Soyanggang Skywalk provide both a geographical experience and a reflection on Korean cultural identity.
The exploration continues to Mt. Seorak National Park and Gwongeumsong Fortress via cable car ride, followed by Shinheungsa Temple and the Great Bronze Buddha. During the journey, the students not only witness natural beauty but also learn to understand Korean civilization and spiritual heritage from a global perspective.
In Seoul, the experience is enriched by a visit to Gyeongbok Royal Palace in hanbok, a stroll along Ikseondong Hanok Street, Hongdae and Cheonggyecheon Stream. It fosters intercultural awareness and sensitivity to the diversity of tradition and modernity within a harmonious social space.
The core pillar is academic visits to several leading South Korean universities. Thursina students have the opportunity to visit Ewha Womans University and Sogang University, followed by visits to Yonsei and Seoul National University. They gain a real-life understanding of Korea's higher education system, research culture, academic atmosphere, and international study opportunities. These interactions broaden their horizons as future global citizens ready to compete and collaborate in international academic communities.
Thursina IIBS Global Outreach Manager, Ustadzah Khusnul Ifada, MA., emphasized that this program is not just an overseas trip, but a process of developing global character. "We want Thursina students to not only excel academically, but also to have a global perspective and be able to adapt in an international environment. This Global Outreach is a real learning space to develop internationally minded students," said Ustadzah Khusnul Ifada, MA.
She also explained that direct exposure to international universities and academic culture has a long-term impact on the students' future orientation. Cross-cultural interactions and international campus visits help students build self-confidence, expand global network awareness, and foster aspirations for international studies. In addition to academic activities, students participate in various experiences such as the Kimbap Making Experience, visits to HiKR Ground, the Starfield Library at COEX Mall, and observations of urban lifestyles in Dongdaemun and Myeongdong. These activities enrich their understanding of the creative industry, technology, and the dynamics of the modern South Korean economy.
A visit to Itaewon Mosque, furthermore, served as a moment to reflect on the diversity of the Muslim community in Korea, maintaining spiritual identity while broadening cross-cultural understanding in a global context.
"The Global Outreach South Korea Program is part of Thursina's strategy to prepare graduates who are not only ready to continue their studies abroad but also capable of becoming adaptive, communicative, and visionary cross-cultural leaders," added Ustadzah Khusnul.
By a combination of academic engagement, cultural immersion, international exposure, and experiential learning, Thursina students are trained to think beyond geographical boundaries, understand global dynamics, and build international networks from an early age.
This program emphasizes that education at Thursina IIBS is a journey to build a generation with broad perspectives, confidence on the international stage, and readiness to take on roles as part of the global community. (lil)
