UMPO's First International KKN 22 Students Ready to Serve in Malaysia

UMPO.AC.ID – The Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo (UMPO) held a student briefing session as part of the preparation for the implementation of the International Community Service Program (International KKN). The International KKN is scheduled to take place in Malaysia starting on January 20, 2026, for approximately one month.

The Head of LPPM UMPO, Prof. Sudarno, M.T., explained that the briefing was attended by 22 students from various study programs. Of these participants, 10 students are involved in the International KKN program in collaboration with LPTK PTMA, while the remaining 12 students are participants in the Independent International KKN organized directly by LPPM UMPO.

“This Independent International KKN is the first to be organized independently by LPPM UMPO. Alhamdulillah, in this inaugural implementation, 12 students are participating. We certainly hope that in the future this program will continue and develop further,” said Prof. Sudarno.

Furthermore, he expressed hope that in the coming years, participation in the International KKN will not be limited to students from only a few faculties, but will involve all faculties within Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo.

“We expect this International KKN to become a platform for global learning for students. They will gain valuable experiences, particularly in understanding the culture of other countries, which is certainly different from Indonesian culture,” he added.

In addition to cross-cultural learning, Prof. Sudarno emphasized that the implementation of the International KKN, which involves students from various Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMA), will also expand students’ networks and social interactions.

“They will exchange experiences with students from other PTMAs. Most importantly, this International KKN will enhance students’ soft skills, including communication, organizational skills, and leadership—especially as they are placed in heterogeneous, cross-campus teams,” he stressed.

Through this briefing activity, LPPM UMPO hopes that all International KKN participants will be optimally prepared—academically, mentally, and socio-culturally—so that they can represent UMPO with excellence on the international stage.