Two Political Science students from the 2023 cohort, Anindya Khadifah and Afifah Zahrah, undertook a one-month international internship at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Manila, Philippines. This program was designed to enrich their academic experience while providing practical insight into Indonesia’s diplomatic practices on the global stage.
During the internship, both students were actively involved in a range of diplomatic and public service activities carried out by the Indonesian mission in the Philippines. They had the opportunity to directly observe embassy operations, including internal coordination, services for Indonesian citizens abroad, and participation in events aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and the Philippines.
In addition to administrative tasks and learning about diplomatic functions, Anindya and Afifah also engaged in activities related to soft diplomacy. Through various embassy programs, they took part in initiatives that introduced Indonesian culture to international audiences, including interactions with local communities and the Indonesian diaspora in Manila. These experiences highlighted how cultural engagement, dialogue, and social interaction can serve as effective tools for enhancing Indonesia’s global image.
The students also gained firsthand exposure to the dynamics of diplomatic work within the embassy, such as attending official meetings, community events, and public gatherings involving international stakeholders. These activities reflect modern diplomatic practices that extend beyond formal political negotiations to include social, cultural, and public communication approaches.
Anindya Khadifah noted that the internship provided valuable insights into the real-world application of international relations theories studied in class. She emphasized that diplomacy is not limited to state-level negotiations but also involves community engagement, cultural promotion, and cross-sector collaboration that contribute to sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Afifah Zahrah stated that participating in various embassy activities broadened her understanding of the complexity of diplomatic work at the global level. She highlighted the strategic importance of soft diplomacy in fostering harmonious international relations and strengthening cooperation across different sectors.
This international internship program is expected to serve as a meaningful learning platform for students to develop a global perspective, enhance their academic competencies, and gain a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s diplomatic practices in Southeast Asia. It is also hoped that such experiences will inspire young people to contribute to advancing Indonesia’s diplomatic role in supporting sustainable development worldwide.
