The three-month virtual intercultural project between the students of UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, and K.J. Somaiya College, Maharashtra, India, was an initiative aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Through structured online interactions, students from both institutions had the opportunity to exchange knowledge, perspectives, and experiences in online webinars held from 17 October 2024 until 16 January 2025. The project was designed to enhance global awareness and communication skills while encouraging meaningful discussions on cultural diversity, education, and societal values. By leveraging digital platforms, participants could overcome geographical barriers and build connections that transcended national borders. This project was the second series of the Window to the Borderless World project, which was started in 2021, hence it was called Window to the Borderless World or WBW 2.0.
One of the key highlights of the project was the interactive learning experience that allowed students to engage in dialogue on various topics from both countries, including prominent figures, tourist spots, education systems, transportation, sports achievements, folktales, traditional games and famous buildings. Group discussions, presentations, and quizzes that were held enabled students to gain insights into each other’s cultural backgrounds. This exchange was instrumental in breaking stereotypes and promoting a deeper appreciation of cultural nuances.
Beyond cultural exchange, the project also facilitated the development of essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy. Students were required to work in teams to complete their presentations, create multimedia presentations, and contribute to the gamification aspect of the project by having quiz sessions. This hands-on approach to learning encouraged adaptability and problem-solving, preparing participants for future global interactions in academic and professional settings. The use of technology, including video conferencing, social media, and learning management systems, played a crucial role in ensuring seamless communication and engagement.
The project culminated in a wonderful closing ceremony on 16 January 2025 with cultural and mode performances by participants from both institutions. In the closing ceremony speeches, Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim, the co-chair of the project from the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia expressed that, “Window to the Borderless World 2.0 has brought new lessons and experiences to the students from both institutions. No matter how far the distance, they can close the gap by communicating and understanding one another. That’s how we can live peacefully.” Dr. Ravindra Jadhav, the co-chair from K.J Somaiya College, India said that “this program has not only helped to understand the cultures of the two countries but has also brought people closer together. On this occasion, I appeal on the global platform that war is not an option, but peace is the only option that can save the world.” The Head of the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, Encik Azlan Abdul Rahman shared that “Window to the Borderless World 2.0 is not only a medium to highlight the similarities and differences between the two worlds of India and Malaysia but also serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and talents among students from both countries.”
This project involved 130 Malaysia students from the classes taught by Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim, Puan Norlizawati Md. Tahir and Puan Asni Syahriza Abu Hassan who made up the team from UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, and this team is also facilitated by Puan Zawani Badri as the graphic designer. From India, 109 students who were involved in the Student Mentoring Project under the supervision of Dr. Ravindra Jadhav were the ones who joined this WBW 2.0 project. Other lecturers from the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch – Puan Robekhah Harun, Dr. Nur Syazwanie Mansor, Puan Sharifah Syakila Syed Shaharuddin, Puan Syakirah Mohammed, Encik Azlan Abdul Rahman and Puan Nor Aslah Adzmi, as well as the class lecturers and Puan Zawani Badri also joined as facilitators during the webinars. The lecturers from K.J Somaiya College who joined as webinar facilitators are Prof. Vijay Khandizod, Prof. Vijay Somase, Dr. Sanjay Argade, Prof. Urmila Hon and Ms. Nupur Autade as well as Dr. Ravindra Jadhav himself. What was more impressive was the closing ceremony was emceed superbly well only by the students from both institutions. They are Mr Faiz Aditia bin Mohd. Hanis and Nur-Itqan Khadijah binti Osny Shu-Harry from UiTM Kedah Branch as well as Miss Pratiksha Raktate and Miss Suchitra Ghadage from K.J Somaiya College.
The virtual intercultural project concluded with the students answering a questionnaire and reflections, allowing students to share their experiences and takeaways. Many participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to lea from their peers in another country and develop a broader worldview. The initiative successfully achieved its goal of fostering inte ational friendship, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding. Moving forward, similar projects can continue to bridge cultural gaps and create a more interconnected global community, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in an increasingly digital and multicultural world.