Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, Enhances English Skills and Cross-Cultural Understanding through the Learning Exchange Program in Malaysia
Corporate Communication and Global Affairs Center at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, continues to develop the students and staff to keep up with the global environment by organizing the “Conversation in Workplace” exchange learning program at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Bachok Campus, Malaysia, from September 7-9, 2024. This program aimed to provide opportunities for students and staff to practice English in real-life situations and closely experience foreign cultures.
The program was designed to enhance participants'''''''' English communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability to new environments. The delegation, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Warapark Maitreephun, Assistant President for Research and Social Mission, Pattani Campus, and Varunya Temrat, Assistant President for Student Development and Alumni Affairs, Pattani Campus, consisted of 63 students and staff.
Assistant Professor Dr. Warapark Maitreephun emphasized that the program marked another significant step for Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, in preparing students and staff for working and living in an international context. The 50 participating students engaged in English workplace conversations at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan to fully develop their language skills and gain cross-cultural experiences over the course of three days. Students had the opportunity to closely observe Malaysian villagers'''''''' by participating in the Villagers'''''''' Festival, where they engaged in local activities such as traditional sports, batik painting, and learning about community products. They also regularly practiced speaking English with villagers and fellow participants.
A highlight of the program was the opportunity for students to participate in sessions on "Professional Self-Introduction" and "English Grammar for Workplace Communication," conducted by lecturers from the Faculty of Language Studies and Human Development, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. Additionally, students visited the Istana Jahar Museum and attended the Carnival of Research and Innovation, broadening their knowledge of Malaysian history, culture, and innovations.
Mr. Muslim Jehda, a first-year student from the Faculty of Political Science at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to meet international friends and learn that cross-cultural communication is not as challenging as he initially thought. "Participating in this exchange program made me realize that meeting friends from other countries isn''''''''t as intimidating as I had imagined. At first, I was nervous about talking to foreigners, but after engaging in activities together, we got along well. If I have the chance to go again, I would love to gain more experience."
Mr. MuhammadSarif Lateh, a fourth-year student from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, reflected on the significant lessons he learned from the exchange program, particularly regarding cultural adaptation. He gained a deeper understanding of different cultures and how to navigate life in a foreign country, highlighting the importance of being open to new cultures in today''''''''s globalized society.
Miss Yupharat Chaiyasit, a second-year student from the Faculty of Nursing at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, shared her excitement about joining the program, stating that she enjoyed learning to adapt to a different culture, including experiencing different food, dressing styles, and using English in real-life situations. She expressed her determination to improve her English proficiency, demonstrating the positive impact of the program on participants'''''''' attitudes and future goals.
