Pekanbaru – In an effort to enhance English proficiency among lecturers, the Language Unit (UPT Bahasa) of Universitas Riau successfully held the Conversation Class for Lecturers from October 14 to November 20, 2024. The sessions were conducted face-to-face every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the IELTS Test Room, UPT Bahasa. The program, attended by active lecturers from various faculties at Universitas Riau, aimed to strengthen participants' active and effective communication skills in English.
The Head of UPT Bahasa Universitas Riau, Prof. Dr. Afrianto Daud, M.Ed., emphasized the importance of English proficiency, especially in academic settings. “The ability to communicate in English is crucial not only for teaching and scientific publications but also for international collaborations. With the conclusion of this Conversation Class, we hope the participants will feel more confident using English in both academic and everyday contexts,” said Prof. Afrianto.
In a separate occasion, the Dean of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Universitas Riau, Dr. Meyzi Heriyanto, S.Sos., M.Si., expressed his appreciation for the program. “We extend our gratitude to UPT Bahasa Universitas Riau for facilitating this Conversation Class. This program significantly supports the professional development of lecturers, especially at FISIP, enabling them to face the challenges of international collaboration, publication, and accreditation,” stated Dr. Meyzi.
During the final session on November 20, 2024, Prof. Afrianto extended heartfelt appreciation to the participants and tutors for their contributions to the program's success. “I am immensely proud of the participants’ enthusiasm for learning and the tutors’ dedication to guiding them wholeheartedly. This program not only enhanced English skills but also fostered stronger connections within Universitas Riau’s academic community,” he remarked.
The program’s tutors, Ms. Mawaddah Muharromah, Ms. Rizka Nurul Atika, and Ms. Richa Fionasari, shared their reflections. Ms. Mawaddah expressed her admiration for the participants' commitment: “Their enthusiasm is extraordinary. They not only learned but actively shared experiences in highly interactive discussions.”
Ms. Rizka added, “Through this program, I also learned a lot from the participants. The discussions provided new insights, particularly about their academic fields and professions.”
Ms. Richa hoped for the program’s continuation. “This Conversation Class is not just a language-learning session; it’s also a platform for building participants’ confidence in speaking at international forums. I hope this program continues to grow,” she said.
To ensure sustainability, Prof. Afrianto affirmed UPT Bahasa’s commitment to initiating beneficial programs that enhance language skills for lecturers, students, and staff. “We are committed to being a strategic partner in language development at Universitas Riau. In the future, there will be more innovative programs supporting Universitas Riau’s global vision,” he explained.
The event concluded with a reflection session, testimonials, certificate distribution, group photos, and a Potluck Party, where participants brought and shared food and drinks.
The participants expressed their gratitude to UPT Bahasa Universitas Riau and the tutors for this invaluable experience. With the end of the Conversation Class for Lecturers, participants are expected to continue developing their English skills and preparing themselves for global challenges.
-RIRY-