Transforming Education for Sustainable Development: UNESA-5 Students Shine in International Business English Course

Magetan, 28 November 2025 – In a significant stride towards international academic recognition and skills development, eight students from the English Literature Department of Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA) successfully completed the prestigious Online Professional English Network (OPEN) course, a program developed by the University of Pennsylvania and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

The course, which focuses on enhancing business and entrepreneurship skills for non-native English speakers, was taken by students from diverse backgrounds. They spent 12 weeks learning to identify business opportunities, conduct market research, and develop business plans, preparing them for global entrepreneurial challenges. The participants engaged in practical modules, including designing persuasive business pitches and communicating effectively in English within professional settings.

The nine successful students, including Haniifatun Ubaidillah; Gilang Nurahma Sejati; Valencia Rizky Sagala; Aqila Hasna An Nafi; Azzahrine Rahmania Ravena Imron; Mulat Sarira; Rastra Wahyu Prawira;  Muhammad Rifqi Darmawan, and Valerie Raissa Wilhelmina Pasaribu were part of this international learning journey. Their achievements underscore the collaborative spirit of global educational initiatives, highlighting UNESA’s commitment to equipping its students with skills that transcend national boundaries.

This self-paced online course runs from October 6 to December 29, 2025, featuring five comprehensive modules. By investing 3-5 hours per week, participants gained vital knowledge that extends beyond language, delving into crucial aspects of entrepreneurship and business strategy. This learning experience not only enhanced their English proficiency but also opened new opportunities for global business collaboration.

The course was delivered through the OPEN platform, with students accessing materials remotely from UNESA in Magetan, Indonesia, connecting them to a global network of learners. The course is set to run through December 29, 2025, providing participants ample time to master the skills necessary for entrepreneurial success in an ever-evolving global market.

The initiative provides crucial educational opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. The course emphasizes digital literacy, communication, and business acumen, empowering students to contribute to sustainable economic growth (SDG 8).

This innovative educational model promotes both flexibility and accessibility, enabling students to learn at their own pace while engaging with peers and mentors across borders. Through online discussion boards, students practiced English communication skills and received real-time feedback, fostering a collaborative learning environment that mirrors the dynamic nature of global entrepreneurship.

As UNESA students continue to break barriers and achieve academic excellence on the international stage, they serve as a testament to the power of education in driving sustainable development and building future leaders in a globalized economy.