The University of Santo Tomas (UST) recently hosted the fifth installment of its “World Lenses: A Cross-Cultural Dialogue with Students” series, marking a significant intersection of academic learning and cultural heritage. Held on April 28, 2026, the event was organized in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Manila as part of the university’s 415th Founding Anniversary celebrations.
Cultural Exchange and Traditional Arts
The program featured a morning session dedicated to cultural workshops, where participants engaged in traditional Indonesian and Filipino dance. Under the guidance of Nurul Sharifa Husna, cultural staff from the Indonesian Embassy, UST Junior High School students practiced the Ratoh Jaroe, a high-energy sitting dance from Indonesia’s Aceh province.
The students later performed the dance, which is characterized by rhythmic body movements, clapping and rapid hand motions. To enhance the authenticity of the experience, the Embassy provided traditional costumes for the performers.
Simultaneously, the workshop on Filipino traditions was led by Reylwood Comie from the UST Conservatory of Music. With support from the Salinggawi Dance Troupe (SDT), students from both the Junior High School and the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management practiced the Tinikling, a dance involving maneuvering between fast-clapping bamboo poles.
Insights into ASEAN Diplomacy
The afternoon session transitioned into an academic lecture titled “Life as an ASEAN Diplomat,” delivered by Avi Dewani Sari Harahap, the Minister Counsellor for Culture and Information at the Indonesian Embassy in Manila. Harahap, a career diplomat with over 20 years of experience, shared insights into the various responsibilities and challenges of international relations.
During the lecture, Harahap emphasized that a career in diplomacy is accessible to students from any academic field, provided they develop essential competencies. She identified key skills such as analytical thinking, crisis management, networking, cultural intelligence, foreign language proficiency, and clarity in communication as vital for the role.
“The important thing to maintain [diplomatic] relations is human connection… The relationship between two parties should be maintained and also be revisited… [because] the mission is better achieved when We see done by the human itself.”
The lecture concluded with an open forum where over 200 students engaged with Harahap regarding the paths to becoming a diplomat and the complexities of navigating international concerns.
Building Global Citizenship
The event served as a practical application of UST’s commitment to internationalization. UST Secretary-General Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., EHL, noted that such gatherings are essential for building the future of ASEAN through dialogue among the youth.
Prof. Karen Santiago, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Office of International Relations and Programs, added that the World Lenses series aims to prepare students for a globalized world by encouraging them to foster a shared regional identity and act as global citizens.
As the World Lenses series continues, these cultural and academic encounters may further strengthen the ties between academic institutions and diplomatic missions. Such programs could also provide students with increased opportunities to develop the soft skills necessary for international careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the primary focus of the afternoon session?
The afternoon session featured a keynote lecture by Avi Dewani Sari Harahap on the topic of “Life as an ASEAN Diplomat.” - Which specific Indonesian dance was taught to the students?
Students learned the Ratoh Jaroe, a traditional dance originating from the Aceh province of Indonesia. - What is the purpose of the World Lenses series?
The series provides close cultural encounters for students and supplements the UST Ambassadors Lecture Series to support internationalization.
How can cultural immersion programs best prepare the next generation for the complexities of global diplomacy?
