Fostering cross-cultural connections via Global Leadership Program

Project-based learning via student exchange programme initiatives or educational trips stands most vital in a student’s academic journey. And Apeejay Stya University (ASU) in Gurugram is always a step ahead in implementing new initiatives for its students’ holistic learning experience. Thus, the University recently organised a one week virtual International Cultural Exchange Programme between students of ASU, India; Hyogo University, Japan; UIN Alauddin Makassar and Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, Indonesia.

This Indo-ASEAN Project-Based Learning Program on Global Leadership was a collaborative initiative aimed at nurturing leadership qualities and fostering intercultural diversity and learning among students from India, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. The Program provided a unique platform for students to share their daily college experiences and leadership qualities, thereby promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. 

The Program was coordinated by Dr. Vijay Kumar, Associate Professor in Apeejay’s School of Education and Programme Coordinator, National Service Scheme, ASU. In addition, Dr. Shatakshi Srivastava, Assistant Professor in School of Engineering and Technology and Ms. Neha Thakur, Assistant Professor, School of Management Sciences were the other event coordinators. Ms. Charu Bansal, from IBT, School of Biosciences was the student coordinator for the programme.  

The six-day online exchange programme witnessed participation of 32 students from different schools of Apeejay Stya University alongside students from other universities globally. 

Day 1: Orientation and Individual Presentation

The first day of the Indo-Japan Exchange Culture Program commenced with an orientation session. All the students were divided into groups, each group had Indian students, Thailand and Indonesian Students. Each participant had one minute to share their background, interests, and expectations from the program. Following the introductions, the session transitioned into individual presentations on food culture. There was a lecture on linear and flexible time and after that students had discussions in the break room on time management. It was an opportunity to showcase the cultural heritage and gastronomic delights that define our culinary landscape. Throughout the day, Students learned the importance of Time management while working with a multicultural team and fostering cross-cultural  understanding. 

Day 2: Campus Life and Leadership

Day 2 began with small talk sessions on campus life, providing insights into the daily experiences and challenges faced by students from different backgrounds. This was followed by a lecture on leadership, where key principles and theories of leadership were discussed. In the subsequent discussion session, students shared their perspectives on effective leadership traits. Students  shared 3 traits they would see in a global leader . After the group discussion , students decided the top 3 traits required to become a global leader by voting for different traits. This activity helped the students to learn the importance of group work , preparing individuals for the realities of the workplace and allowing individuals to build strong relationships and networks with their peers.

Day 3: Feedback and Credo Draft

The focus of Day 3 was on feedback mechanisms and crafting a draft for a team credo. A lecture on feedback explored the importance of giving and receiving constructive feedback in personal and professional growth. Participants engaged in discussions on the best practices for delivering feedback effectively and using feedback to drive continuous improvement. In the latter part of the day, teams collaborated to draft a credo, outlining shared values, goals, and principles that would guide our collective efforts throughout the program. Through the feedback sessions, students gained insights into the value of reflective practice and continuous learning. “It was my first time attending it and it was really nice to meet everyone from different cultures. An amazing learning as it’s a great platform to open up and not have social anxiety or fear,” says Toshika, a B.Design student.

Another B Design student Anushka Sharma highlighted, “Being a part of such a great cultural exchange program for the first time was an amazing experience.  I got to learn about leadership and how I can lead a multicultural team. Everyone was so kind and humble. I never felt demotivated throughout the program. It was very interesting and fun. Thank you to all the staff and my teammates for this great experience.” 

Day 4: Persuasion and Panel Discussion

Day 4 commenced with a lecture on persuasion, examining techniques and strategies for influencing others’ attitudes and behaviors. The highlight of the day was a panel discussion featuring experts from various fields, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of leadership in today’s dynamic world. From the panel discussion, students learned the importance of ethical decision-making and integrity in leadership. Students discussed the panel discussion and highlighted the qualities which are important for a global leader.

Day 5: Learning from Global Leaders and Presentation Preparation

Day 5 provided an opportunity for reflection on lessons learned from global leaders. Participants shared their insights and takeaways from the program, identifying key principles and practices that could be applied in their personal and professional lives. The students had to prepare mid term presentations , drafting the ideas and making the presentation creative . Then 2 teams presented their PPT and received feedback from the staff to make it more effective and presentable. 

At the end of the session , students learned to manage time ,  communicate with other teams and work on feedback.

Madhu Kumari from School of Education said, “It was my first time attending this programme and it was really very nice and innovative. It was an eye opening journey for all. Through discussing our personal opinions and cultures, I have personally gained a lot into the heritage and innovation of both countries.This experience helps me to be more frank and strengthen my belief in the potential of teamwork and collaboration between different cultures. It taught me that whether we belong to a different nation and culture our  potential is the same to lead a team and collaborate with other cultures.Overall it was an amazing learning.”

Read Here: Indian students learn about Japanese culture in an international exchange programme

“I attended the event for the first time and was really amused to see the levels of the fluency and communication skills in English of those of the international audience. I really, at last but not the least, would like to say that I really learnt a lot from them, and want to improve myself in that manner like them,” said Kumud Kalra, a student from School of Engineering & Technology.

Students spent the six-days learning various aspects of different cultures.  

Sahida Begum from School of Education said, “It was my first experience to attend global leadership program and it was really very interesting to meet with different people from different cultures.It encompasses a deep understanding of diverse cultures , effective communication and the capacity to make informed decisions with a global perspective..It taught me that though we belong to different nations and culture but our potential are same to lead a group and to collaborate with other. Overall it was really very effective and I have learned many things from there.”

For Khushboo as well, it was her first time to attend such an event and show her presence in it, and I was really amused to see the levels of the fluency and communication skills in English of those of the international audience and all the foreigners. I really liked their participation in the event, and would like to say that I really learnt a lot from them, and want to improve myself in that manner like them. I’m extremely grateful and thankful to the coordinator of the international audience and ASU.”

Apeejay students Priya Maurya and Hritika Sharma also have learnt a lot from students of different countries as well as made new connections.

“Participating in the Indo-Japan program has been an eye-opening journey. Through discussions and cultural exchanges, I’ve gained insights into the heritage and innovation of both nations. This experience has inspired me and strengthened my belief in the potential for collaboration and partnership. I look forward to contributing to the growth of Indo-Japan relations,” expressed Aryan Sharma, a B Com student with the School of Management Sciences.

Finally Charu Bansal , 3rd year student pursuing Integrated Biotechnology shared, “Global leadership program provided international students with invaluable experiences in cultural exchange, leadership development, and networking. This program once again brought together students from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Students got the opportunity to learn from each other’s perspectives, share best practices, and develop leadership skills in a global context. Additionally, these programs included cultural immersion activities, further enriching the participant’s experience and preparing them to be effective leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.”