SLEMAN – The SMILE Project is a meaningful international collaboration between Al Azhar 34 Senior High School Yogyakarta and Miwa High School in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. This program was designed to give students the opportunity to interact, learn, and share knowledge across cultures through a series of virtual meetings. Conducted via Zoom, the project brought together students from both schools to engage in discussions on self-introduction, cultural exchange, and future aspirations.
The activities were carried out through three scheduled sessions on 14 October 2025, 11 November 2025, and 18 November 2025. Each session offered new insights and encouraged students to participate actively in interactive conversations. A total of 30 students from Al Azhar 34 Senior High School Yogyakarta joined the program, consisting of 30 students from Grade X and XI, who enthusiastically collaborated with students from Miwa High School.
Throughout the program, students exchanged information about their cultures, daily activities, and future plans, creating a vibrant and supportive learning atmosphere. The second session on 11 November especially highlighted cultural exchange, where students shared stories, traditions, and unique aspects of their countries. By joining these discussions, students not only improved their communication skills but also gained a deeper appreciation for global diversity.
The SMILE Project received warm and positive feedback from participants. One student, Izza, expressed that the activities were exciting and beneficial because they allowed her to share cultural knowledge and learn about the Japanese language through enjoyable interactions. She also noted that the program helped her expand her circle of international friends.
Overall, the SMILE Project successfully strengthened the spirit of global collaboration and opened opportunities for continued partnerships between the two schools. It is hoped that this enriching program will continue to inspire students to embrace cross-cultural understanding and broaden their perspectives as global learners. (Isna Silvia)
