Unismuh Architecture Students Introduce Design and Architecture to Southern Thailand Students

UNISMUH.AC.ID, NARATHIWAT, Southern Thailand — Architecture students from the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Muhammadiyah (Unismuh) Makassar, Firman Ruandi Zafitra, introduced students of Samanmitwittaya School, Southern Thailand, to the world of design and architecture during an educational event held on June 11, 2026.

The event was part of the 2nd International Community Service Program organized by the Lembaga Pengkajian, Pengembangan, and Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat (LP3M) of Unismuh Makassar through the International Community Service scheme.

Through this event, students were introduced to the field of architecture, the role of architects in construction, as well as various educational and career opportunities that can be pursued in the future. The educational program aimed to broaden students' understanding of the university world while providing an understanding of the importance of architecture in modern society.

During his presentation, Firman explained that architecture is not only about visually appealing building design, but also encompasses the planning of safe, comfortable, functional, and environmentally friendly spaces. He stated that an architect has a responsibility to create a built environment that can meet human needs while still considering sustainability.

Students were also introduced to various stages of the architectural design process, from brainstorming, sketching, concept development, to the use of modern technology in planning and construction. Through this explanation, students gained an understanding of the process involved before a building is realized and used by the community.

To make the material easier to understand, the event was packaged interactively through discussions and Q&A sessions. The students were enthusiastic in asking various questions about the profession of architecture, the design process of buildings, as well as opportunities to continue education in the field of architecture.

Firman said that the event was designed to broaden students' awareness of various disciplines that can be studied at university.

"Architecture is not just about drawing buildings, but also about creating comfortable, safe, and beneficial spaces for the community. Through this event, we hope that students can get to know the world of architecture and be motivated to continue learning and developing their potential," he said.

In carrying out the event, Muh. Rusli Unding, a student from the Agrotechnology Program at the Faculty of Agriculture, Unismuh Makassar, also participated. The involvement of students from different disciplines was one of the characteristics of the International Community Service program that promoted interdisciplinary collaboration in contributing to the community.

The Head of the Architecture Program at Unismuh Makassar, Ar. Hj. Citra Amalia Amal, S.T., M.T., IAI, appreciated the students' initiative in providing architectural education to students in an international environment.

According to her, the event showed that architecture students were able to play a role as educators in introducing the importance of design, space, and built environments to the community.

"We hope that such international experiences can broaden students' perspectives and strengthen their ability to communicate and share knowledge with diverse communities," she said.

She added that introducing the world of architecture to young people is a positive step in fostering creativity, critical thinking skills, and awareness of the importance of well-designed environments.

Similar appreciation was expressed by the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Unismuh Makassar, Ir. Muhammad Syafaat S. Kuba, S.T., M.T. According to him, the International Community Service program provides opportunities for students to implement their academic competencies and broaden their global perspectives.

"What the architecture students in Southern Thailand did shows that engineering science is not only applied in a professional context, but can also be a means of educating and empowering communities," he said.

The 2nd International Community Service Program was attended by 30 students from various faculties at Unismuh Makassar, who were placed in various schools and communities in Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala provinces, Southern Thailand. Of these, 11 students were from the Faculty of Engineering, consisting of 4 students from the Architecture Program, 4 students from the Computer Engineering Program, 2 students from the Irrigation Program, and 1 student from the Electrical Engineering Program.

Through the architectural introduction event at Samanmitwittaya School, students from Unismuh Makassar not only shared academic knowledge, but also built bridges of education and culture between Indonesia and Thailand. This event is a testament to how international community service can broaden the horizons of young people and strengthen academic and social ties between nations.