Toraja Cultural Immersion: A Community Service Initiative for Higher Education in Australia

Cultural immersion programs are increasingly recognized for their
role in fostering cross-cultural exchange, deepening cultural
understanding, and promoting mutual learning. This study
investigates the impact of a Toraja Cultural Immersion program, held
in Bali from 6–21 July 2024, involving students from the University of
Western Australia (UWA) and the English Education Study Program
at UKI Toraja. A qualitative research design was adopted to evaluate
the program's outcomes for participants and the host community.
Twenty-one UWA students and seven UKI Toraja members were
selected through purposive sampling to ensure diverse perspectives.
Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and participant
observation during activities such as teaching, cultural rituals, and
community service. Thematic analysis was applied to transcribed data
to identify recurring themes. The findings reveal that the program
significantly enhanced participants' cultural awareness and
intercultural competence. UWA students gained deeper insights into
Toraja culture and demonstrated improved adaptability and
understanding of cultural nuances. Meanwhile, members of UKI
Toraja observed increased enthusiasm for English language learning
and cultural preservation efforts within their community. The
program successfully bridged cultural gaps, fostering mutual learning
and providing educational benefits for both groups. The involvement
of local facilitators from UKI Toraja was pivotal in contextualizing
cultural experiences and guiding participants. This study underscores
the value of cultural immersion programs in promoting intercultural
competence and educational exchange. Future research should
explore the long-term effects of such programs on participants'
personal and professional development.