Malang - Being part of the international research community is the dream of many students. Ahmad Zaidan Averous, a student of the Mathematics Study Program class of 2022 from the Faculty of Science and Technology UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, managed to realize this dream through an international Field Work Practice (PKL) program at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), Thailand, for one full month from June to July 2025.

KMUTT itself is known as one of the leading technical universities in Thailand that is active in technological innovation and global research collaboration. In this PKL program, Ahmad is involved in a research project entitled "Academic Based Board Game Development", which develops board games as an academic-based interactive learning media.

Ahmad played a role in designing the game mechanism, compiling educational materials based on the mathematics curriculum, and conducting trials with the research team. He also underwent intensive academic discussions and compiled a research report as an output of the activity.

"This experience opened my eyes that math is not only about theory, but can be packaged in an interesting and applicable way," she said.

KMUTT provided full support, including funding for accommodation while Ahmad was in Thailand, so that he could focus fully on the research and development process.

This program is part of UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang's commitment to encourage its students to take part at the international level. Through this experience, Ahmad not only broadens his horizons and improves his research competence, but also builds valuable global academic networks.

This activity is clear evidence that Indonesia's young generation is able to compete on the global stage, with the provision of knowledge, the spirit of collaboration, and the courage to step out of the comfort zone.(beautiful/br)