Jakarta International University (JIU) once again strengthened its international collaboration by hosting the IT Design Sprint Camp in partnership with Handong Global University from July 28 to August 1, 2025. This program is an annual initiative of Handong and UNITWIN (University Twinning and Networking Programme), a UNESCO-led effort that aims to foster cooperation among universities worldwide, particularly to support the development of higher education in developing countries. Through this program, students gained the opportunity to directly interact with international professors and students while sharpening their critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative skills.
Prior to the main event, JIU participants underwent a one-month online training. The training was conducted by a professor and students from Handong Global University, who introduced the fundamentals of the design sprint methodology as well as the basics of application development. This online training served as essential preparation before the face-to-face sessions, when the Handong team arrived at JIU. The team consisted of one professor and four students, who guided participants throughout the program.
The camp officially began on July 28, with students divided into four groups. Each group was challenged to identify real-life problems within their communities and then design solutions in the form of application prototypes. The process included group discussions, planning, design development, and prototype testing with fellow participants as users. This approach not only helped students generate innovative ideas but also highlighted the importance of feedback in refining their projects.
The highlight of the program took place on August 1, 2025, when all groups presented their application prototypes before professors, faculty members, staff, and students. These presentations showcased the results of intensive five-day collaboration, from problem identification to the creation of digital solutions.
In addition to the design sprint, the Handong team also conducted special sessions for JIU freshmen on Artificial Intelligence (AI). These sessions introduced students to the basic concepts of AI and its various applications in modern technology. After five days of learning, freshmen demonstrated their understanding through brief presentations on the potential and functions of AI in the future.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Oh Jin Park and Handong’s Prof. Sungbae Cho, followed by the awarding of certificates of recognition from both Handong Global University and JIU to all participants. The event ended with a group photo session, symbolizing the success of this international collaboration.
