Makassar — The International Office of UIN Alauddin
Makassar, in collaboration with ENLITE (English Literature Community), the
English Literature Study Program of the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, and the
English Education Study Program of the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher
Training, hosted the International Talk Show ENLITE Fest 2026 under the
theme “Digital Humanities: A Breakthrough.”
Held at the Senate Meeting Room of the Rectorate Building,
the event brought together students, academics, and international guests to
discuss emerging opportunities in digital humanities, intercultural engagement,
and global education.
The highlight of the event was a keynote presentation by Mr.
Todd Dias, Consul General of Australia in Makassar, who shared insights
into educational opportunities in Australia, including scholarship programs
available to Indonesian students.
“The Australian Government continues to provide scholarship
opportunities for Indonesian students through various funding schemes,
including government-sponsored programs and scholarships offered directly by
Australian universities,” Mr. Dias said.
During his presentation, Mr. Dias introduced the Australia
Awards Scholarships, one of Australia’s flagship international scholarship
programs. The initiative supports Indonesian students, academics, and
professionals in pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as
participating in professional development and capacity-building programs in
Australia.
“Indonesia and Australia continue to strengthen their
partnership through education, research, and cultural exchange. We encourage
more students from UIN Alauddin Makassar to take advantage of opportunities
such as Australia Awards Scholarships to expand their academic horizons and
develop international networks,” he added.
In addition to discussing educational opportunities, Mr.
Dias emphasized the growing significance of Digital Humanities in
fostering international collaboration. He highlighted the long-standing
historical relationship between the people of Makassar and the Yolngu community
of Northern Australia as evidence of centuries-old cultural connections between
the two nations.
According to Mr. Dias, digital transformation has created
unprecedented opportunities for education, research, and cross-border academic
cooperation. However, he stressed the importance of strengthening digital
literacy to address contemporary challenges related to misinformation and
disinformation.
The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Barsihannor,
Dean of the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, representing the Rector of UIN
Alauddin Makassar. In his remarks, he expressed appreciation to the Australian
Consulate General in Makassar for its continued engagement with the university
community.
“Technological advancement should strengthen, rather than
replace, human values. Universities have a responsibility to prepare graduates
who can integrate technology with cultural heritage, language, and
civilization. Events such as this broaden students’ global perspectives while
helping them maintain their cultural identity,” he stated.
The program also featured a presentation by Dr. Serliah
Nur, S.Pd., M.Hum., M.Ed., Head of the International Office of UIN Alauddin
Makassar, who discussed the importance of Cross-Cultural Understanding
in an increasingly interconnected world.
She emphasized that internationalization extends beyond
overseas study opportunities and includes developing openness, intercultural
competence, and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse cultural
contexts.
“In the era of Digital Humanities, technological competence
must be accompanied by intercultural understanding. Both are essential for
creating inclusive and sustainable international collaboration,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Syahruni Junaid, S.S., M.Pd., Chief of
Community of ENLITE and lecturer in the English Literature Study Program,
reflected on ENLITE’s long-standing commitment to student development.
“ENLITE Fest is more than an arts festival. It serves as a
leadership laboratory where students develop essential skills such as
collaboration, communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and mutual
respect. These experiences provide valuable preparation for their future
academic and professional careers,” he said.
The event also showcased a range of cultural performances
celebrating diversity and intercultural dialogue. International students from Thailand
performed traditional and contemporary Thai dances, while students from the
English Literature Study Program presented an Exhibition Parade featuring
cultural representations of Australia, the United States, Egypt, and the
indigenous Kajang community of South Sulawesi.
A Culture Exhibition themed “Halal Tourism
Destinations in Makassar” further enriched the program. Through visual
displays, models, and informational exhibits, students introduced Makassar’s
tourism potential while promoting intercultural awareness through presentations
on social norms, customs, and cultural etiquette from various countries and
regions.
ENLITE Fest 2026 is being conducted in two phases. The first
phase featured the international talk show, cultural exhibitions, and student
competitions in poetry and storytelling. The second phase will culminate in
drama and poetry performances scheduled to take place on July 15, 2026,
at Gedung Fajar, Makassar.
Through ENLITE Fest 2026, UIN Alauddin Makassar reaffirms
its commitment to advancing university internationalization by strengthening
global partnerships, promoting intercultural competence, and creating academic
platforms that connect technology, humanities, and international collaboration. (m.taufik)
