Wanda Dya Arneni, a Master’s student in Biology at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), has been awarded the Canada-ASEAN SEED (Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development) 2024 scholarship. This opportunity allows her to develop her academic and research skills at Dalhousie University in Canada, an institution known for its academic standards.
Research in Sustainable Agriculture
While at Dalhousie, under the guidance of Associate Professor Lord Abbey and Dr. Raphael Ofoe, Arneni is conducting research on the effects of beneficial bacteria on plant growth in high-salinity conditions. This study aims to address key challenges in sustainable agriculture, particularly in coastal regions impacted by seawater intrusion, which threatens agricultural productivity.
Arneni focuses on creating biological solutions to enhance plant resilience in extreme conditions. The advanced laboratory facilities available at Dalhousie enable her to refine her microbiological research techniques and broaden her scientific expertise.
In addition to her research activities, she values the academic collaboration present at Dalhousie University. The supportive environment fosters problem-solving discussions that promote innovative thinking.
Cultural Adaptation
Adjusting to life in Canada has presented Arneni with various challenges, including adapting to new languages, social practices, and the severe winter climate, which is a novel experience for her.
Arneni has expressed appreciation for the warm receptions she has received from Canadians. She noted that simple acts of kindness, like holding open doors and welcoming gestures, have made her feel accepted.
As a Muslim student, she initially had concerns about integrating into a predominantly non-Muslim society, but she has found comfort in Canada’s inclusive and multicultural atmosphere. Arneni highlighted that inquiries about her hijab and Islamic beliefs often stem from genuine curiosity rather than prejudice.
Building a Global Network
The Canada-ASEAN SEED program has not only enhanced Arneni’s academic journey but has also broadened her international network. She has engaged with researchers, professors, and peers from various backgrounds, creating pathways for potential collaborations in her field.
Gratitude has been expressed towards Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) and the organizers of the scholarship program for their assistance throughout the application and transition phases.
Looking forward, Arneni intends to leverage her knowledge to further microbiological research at UNAIR and encourage fellow Indonesian students to seek international academic experiences. She emphasized the importance of thorough preparation, including achieving a strong TOEFL score, crafting a solid research proposal, and finding a suitable academic supervisor, to succeed in pursuing global opportunities.
Source: Fiona Lim | Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
