(FEB NEWS) The Department of Management, Faculty of Economics and Business, Airlangga University (UNAIR), has once again demonstrated its commitment to strengthening internationalization by organizing CUBIC 2026 (Cultural–Business Immersion and Connection Program). This inbound student program was attended by 52 students from five countries: Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Vietnam, Madagascar, and Indonesia.
The event officially kicked off with an opening ceremony on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Tirto Hall, 2nd Floor, Faculty of Economics and Business, UNAIR. This momentum marked the beginning of a series of programs designed to provide an integrated global learning experience, combining academic, cultural, and industrial practice aspects.
The Dean of FEB UNAIR, Prof. Dr. Rudi Purwono, SE., M.SE, opened the event and stated that CUBIC 2026 is part of the institution's strategy to expand its international network and improve the quality of its graduates. "So that students not only understand theory but also are able to apply it in a dynamic global context," he said.
For five days, participants were invited to experience East Java's industrial and cultural ecosystem firsthand. They visited JNT Waru (a logistics company), made batik in Mojokerto, learned about production management at the Kapal Api Museum, and participated in dance and gamelan workshops at the UKTK Campus C UNAIR. They also had a city tour of Surabaya, the Old Town, and an international corner for cross-cultural discussions.
The Head of the Management Department of FEB UNAIR, Dr. Yetty Dwi Lestari, SE., MT., explained that CUBIC is designed to encourage cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural collaboration. "We integrate academic exchange with project-based learning, so students can develop real-world solutions based on cross-cultural understanding," she explained.
The event culminated in a project presentation session, where participants presented the results of their projects in groups. This project required analytical skills, collaboration, and an understanding of practical issues in the global business world.
Prof. Rudi added that the interaction between participants from various countries added value to the program. "The diversity of participants' backgrounds creates a rich discussion space and strengthens students' global perspectives," he said.
Furthermore, the program emphasizes that it's not only focused on short-term experiences but also offers opportunities for ongoing collaboration. "We hope the networks formed can develop into academic and professional collaborations in the future," he concluded.
Supported by FEB UNAIR and LPDP through an equity scheme, CUBIC 2026 is a concrete step in strengthening FEB UNAIR's position as an educational institution adaptable to global dynamics. This program is expected to produce students with international competencies while fostering a spirit of innovation and cross-cultural collaboration in the era of globalization.
Editor: Sintya Alfafa