Following three years of investment into Psychology lecturers’ English language ability and methodology of delivering their subjects in English, the time came to move on and partner with other faculties at the State Islamic University of Sultan Syarif Kassim in Riau, Indonesia. This decision was made in light of local lecturers becoming increasingly familiar and confident with using English as the medium of instruction for their classes, and also a number of program participants successfully applying for further study abroad. Although faculty leadership was open to continued SEEDS involvement with these initiatives, the operational principle of sustainability dictated that it was better to allow local staff to continue to grow these programs.
In the wake of wrapping up involvement with the Psychology Faculty, SEEDS has established a similar lecturer-training program in collaboration with the Science & Technology Faculty. In February 2019, the SEEDS consultant undertook a brief needs analysis in order to better understand lecturers’ language abilities as well as the areas for growth that fit with the faculty’s strategic plans. A multi-phase plan addressing conversational and formal oral proficiency, standardized proficiency test-taking skills, pedagogical skills for teaching using English, and academic writing was developed, and the first stage commenced that same month.
Throughout this transition, the aim of SEEDS’ involvement continues to be the resourcing and equipping of local lecturers as a sustainable contribution to the quality of education available to Southeast Asia’s peoples.