Zacharie Nichols-Lang is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from Murdoch University. Zacharie undertook the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course in January-February 2022.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ILSC?
Having already begun my Indonesian journey, I wished to show my appreciation and respect for the many wonderful people I have met along the way.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If yes, why do you think the NCP is an important initiative? The NCP is a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates on experiences such as the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course
Yes. Providing Australia’s youth with the the opportunity to learn from our Indo-Pacific neighbours is vital to ensuring the future prosperity of Australia and the region.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this virtual experience?
Feeling as though I was truly a student at an Indonesian university.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
Sitting for many hours in front of screen can be challenging. Luckily there were adequate breaks provided. The intensive format can sometimes make it feel as if new information is not retained but for the most part it is.
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the Virtual ILSC to your previous experiences?
No formal experience, though some tutoring. The intensive format provides well-needed structure and incentive.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
It was a pleasure to learn about the way Indonesian children emulate cultural practices in their playtime.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
Feeling a connection to Indonesia (and meeting Indonesian people) again after not being able to visit in the wake of government COVID-19 restrictions.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
Completing this course proved to be that though learning a language is difficult I can do it. This has given me the confidence to continue learning in the future.
Q: Would you recommend this virtual program to your friends?
Yes, I would recommend this course to friends regardless of whether they have any knowledge of Indonesia.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
“Wkwkwk” or “semangat!”
Q: Describe your experience of the Virtual ILSC in three words:
Wonderful Indonesian journey