International Students’ Grand Ifthar 2026: Celebrating Diversity and Indonesian Tradition at ITB

On February 27, 2026, the Directorate of Partnerships ITB hosted a heartwarming gathering titled the International Students’ Grand Ifthar 2026. This event is a key highlight in the calendar for inbound international students, designed to introduce them to the vibrant cultural tradition of breaking the fast (berbuka puasa) in Indonesia.

More than 150 participants, including international students and representatives from various units within the University, gathered to share this special moment of togetherness.

Cultural Immersion and Warm Welcomes

The afternoon kicked off with a lively “Ngabuburit” game session, a local term for spending time while waiting for the sunset. This session allowed students from different backgrounds to bond and enjoy the festive atmosphere before the formal proceedings began.

The formal program was opened by Mailani Kamilah from the Directorate of Partnerships, followed by a solemn recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Sayyid Anfaresi, a Master’s student at ITB who also serves as a dedicated International Student Buddy.

Support from ITB Leadership

The event was graced by the presence of ITB’s top leadership and representatives from the Vice Rectorate for Communication, Partnerships, Alumni, and Administration (WRKMAA) and related units handling international student affairs.

Dr. Andryanto Rikrik Kusmara, S.Sn., M.Sn., the Vice Rector for Communication, Partnerships, Alumni, and Administration, delivered the opening speech, followed by remarks from Dr. Ir. Endra Gunawan, S.T., M.Sc., Director of Partnerships. The highlight of the evening was a warm address from the Rector of ITB, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., who emphasized the importance of global friendship and cultural exchange within the campus.

Following the speeches, an engaging “Open Talk” session was led by Baraka Ntibashigwa Budogo, an international student who shared insights into the student experience at ITB.

A Taste of Indonesian Hospitality

As the sun began to set, the participants moved to the front of the STP Building for a commemorative group photo, capturing the spirit of unity among the diverse international community.

The evening concluded with the much-anticipated Ifthar. Students were treated to a rich variety of Indonesian traditional snacks and street food favorites, including gorengan, sate, bakso, es kelapa, and traditional cakes like awug and various jajanan pasar, followed by a hearty dinner.

The International Students’ Grand Ifthar 2026 successfully provided a platform for international students to not only taste local delicacies but also to feel at home while studying at ITB.