A total of 43 foreign students participating in the Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) program from Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) and Universitas Negeri Semarang (Unnes) gained a unique cultural experience in a “metal craft” culture class.

The activity was held on Friday, 21 November 2025, in the Metal Craft Laboratory of the Faculty of Languages, Arts, and Culture (FBSB), UNY, where participants learned basic techniques for processing beads into ethnic accessories typical of the Indonesian archipelago.

The group included 19 BIPA students from UNY and 24 from Unnes, hailing from countries across Asia, Europe, and America.

Through this cultural class, they not only practice the Indonesian language in a classroom setting, but also internalize cultural values through simple, engaging, and practical craft art.

The class is part of a Metal Craft course led by lecturer Dedy Sartono, M.Pd., who, using a practice-based approach, introduced participants to ways of stringing beads into products such as bracelets, earrings, keychains, and brooches.

Each student was given the opportunity to design their own accessory, combining color, shape, and character of the beads available.

According to Dedy, the class was designed to show the international students that Indonesian metal craft is not limited to heavy metals but also involves simple, manageable materials.

“Through the activity of beading, they can understand that Indonesian metal craft has a broad, creative spectrum, and is closely connected to daily life. Apart from learning the language, they also engage with culture directly,” he explained.

During the session, the laboratory was alive with activity: students carefully selecting beads, experimenting with color combinations, and discussing traditional motifs commonly used in Nusantara (Indonesian archipelago) accessories.

Many were enthusiastic to produce pieces that reflected their personal tastes, and several even attempted ethnic patterns.

One foreign student from Unnes admitted that it was his first time trying bead-based craft. He said the experience gave him new insight into Indonesia’s rich, detailed, and colorful craft tradition. “I usually only see ethnic accessories in traditional markets. But today, I can make them by myself. This is a very enjoyable experience,” he shared.

He added that the activity not only improved his Indonesian language skills, but also boosted his confidence and fine motor skills.

In alignment with sustainable development goals, this cultural class supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), by providing an inclusive and intercultural learning experience, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by fostering global cooperation in education and culture.

This metal craft class is part of UNY and Unnes’s commitment to creating a holistic learning environment for foreign students. By combining language learning, art, and cultural understanding, the program aims to deepen students’ immersive experiences and cultivate appreciation for Indonesia’s artistic heritage.