BIPA USK KNB Participants Learn to Make Reungkan in Gampong Nusa

International students of the Bahasa Indonesia for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) Program at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), who are recipients of the Developing Countries Partnership (KNB) scholarship, took part in a cultural class by learning how to make Reungkan, a traditional Acehnese handicraft, in Gampong Nusa, Aceh Besar, on 4 October 2025.

Reungkan is a traditional woven stove mat commonly used in Acehnese kitchens as a base for hot pans or cooking pots. During the activity, the participants were guided directly by local artisans—mainly the village elders—who demonstrated the traditional crafting techniques using natural materials. They also shared the cultural meaning and everyday function of Reungkan in Acehnese households.

Despite the challenges of learning the weaving process, the participants showed great enthusiasm and patience as they followed each step carefully. At the end of the session, each student was able to complete their own Reungkan, which they proudly brought home as a meaningful souvenir of their cultural experience.

This activity is part of a series of cultural immersion programs under BIPA USK, designed to introduce international students to the rich cultural heritage of Aceh. While the students typically focus on language learning in the classroom, this session offered them a hands-on experience outside the academic setting, allowing them to engage directly with local traditions.

The participants came from diverse countries including Botswana, Malawi, Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, Tanzania, Solomon Islands, and Kyrgyzstan. Through activities like this, the program hopes not only to strengthen their Indonesian language skills but also to deepen their understanding of the cultural values embedded in Acehnese society.