On 16-18 August 2023, the Department of International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), successfully hosted an international community service program in collaboration with Central China Normal University (CCNU). Titled “Building Cultural and Development Bridges: Collaboration between China and the Semarang Community in Strengthening Religious and Social Values”, the event aimed to foster intercultural understanding and enhance religious and social harmony in Semarang, Indonesia.

The program, which took place both online in July 2023 for preparatory coordination and offline in Semarang, involved a series of workshops, discussions, and cultural exchanges. These activities facilitated direct interaction between Chinese academics, UNDIP students, and local community leaders, aiming to address key issues around social resilience, cultural dialogue, and religious tolerance.

A thematic workshop titled “Strengthening Social Resilience through Cultural Dialogue” was one of the event’s highlights, where students from both universities engaged in cross-cultural discussions and problem-solving exercises. Participants also visited local religious and social institutions, fostering an environment of mutual respect and active engagement.

This initiative aligns with the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly community service, and supports UNDIP’s internationalization goals. It also exemplifies the growing importance of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening grassroots diplomacy and promoting social cohesion. Through this collaboration, both academic institutions aim to enhance their global presence while nurturing socially responsible leaders who can contribute to peaceful and inclusive global communities.

The community service program successfully achieved several outcomes, including strengthened academic ties between CCNU and UNDIP, improved intercultural communication skills, and a deeper understanding of international community service practices among participants. The event also underscored the importance of fostering religious tolerance and social inclusivity in a multicultural context.

By facilitating such impactful exchanges, the program serves as a model for future initiatives that blend academic objectives with real-world social impact, ensuring that universities remain key players in peacebuilding and global citizenship.