Our senior lecturer, Akun and the Deputy Head of English department, Irfan Rifai attended a one – day symposium organized by the University of Indonesia on September 11, 2014 as speakers. The organizer took the initiative of inviting regional representatives of English studies in universities in Indonesia with the thought of strengthening the bond and opening up opportunities for future collaborations. The symposium was attended by 3 groups of English studies in Indonesia, namely, education department (PBI), English literature, and STIBAs.

The opening ceremony
The opening ceremony

After the opening ceremony, the group was split into three groups to gather  specific insights and issues faced by each group. Akun and Irfan were with representatives from Sanata Darma, UNDIP, UNS , University of Indonesia and many others and shared their ideas there. The discussion was found to be a fruitful one, with representatives of each university shared their ideas and issues that they have had to face.

Group Discussion
Group Discussion

After a 2 hour group session, the groups returned to the auditorium to have panel discussion. Akun was appointed to be become the spokesperson for the English literature group. The panel discussion lasted for a few hours with spokespersons of each group shared the results of their group discussions. All that led to the direction of forming one association.

Akun among other spokespersons
Akun among other spokespersons

Later in the afternoon, Indonesia English Studies Association (IESA) was formed. UI representative was elected to be the first president of the association, with Sanata Dharma became its vice president. Atmajaya appointed to be  the secretary and BINUS trusted to be the Treasurer of the organization.

We hope that in the long run, IESA will grow and give mutual benefit to all of its members.