Smart Tourism, Global Collaboration: Indonesian Teacher Trainers Complete EMI Programme at CHU
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As part of a national initiative launched by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, nine outstanding university teachers and trainers from across Indonesia travelled to Taiwan for an intensive ten-day EMI and CLIL-based training programme hosted by Chung Hua University (CHU). CHU’s College of Tourism was honoured to be one of only two institutions in Taiwan selected to lead this prestigious programme, which focused on innovative pedagogy and cross-cultural academic exchanges.
Delivered through CHU’s Smart Tourism and EMI initiative, the training offered participants a blend of cutting-edge classroom strategies and internationally recognised teacher development pathways. Led by a team of six accredited CERT PT trainers under the guidance of Steven Murray, Course Director of English Total Immersion (ETI), the programme featured immersive workshops on student-centred design, reflective practice, and culturally responsive teaching.
A strong emphasis was placed on international collaboration. Trainers and participants worked together to explore how EMI practices and smart tourism education can bridge geographic and cultural boundaries. The programme encouraged rich professional dialogue around shared educational challenges such as student engagement, English proficiency, and inclusive pedagogy. It also laid the groundwork for future partnerships between Indonesian and Taiwanese institutions.
Participants returned home equipped with practical strategies, greater clarity on EMI implementation, and a renewed sense of their role as educators in a global learning environment. Trainers also reflected on the value of mutual learning, describing the experience as a powerful exchange of ideas, energy, and inspiration.
The learning extended beyond the classroom. On the final evening, participants, trainers, and CHU staff came together for a celebratory meal at a local Indian restaurant. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere encouraged deeper cultural exchange and personal connection. Stories were shared, friendships were formed, and laughter filled the evening. Conversations that began over shared curries and chapatis are still continuing today. This experience was a reminder that meaningful international collaboration is built on both professional engagement and genuine human connection.