Kelvin Elimada Ojango, a student from Tanzania, is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Maintenance Management at the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung (FTMD ITB), under The Indonesian AID Scholarship (TIAS) program. The East African scholar chose Indonesia as his study destination for its combination of strong academic standards and rich cultural diversity.

According to Kelvin, Indonesia stands out as a country deeply committed to international education through various initiatives such as TIAS and the Developing Countries Partnership Scholarship (Beasiswa Kemitraan Negara Berkembang, or KNB). “I was very interested in studying in Southeast Asia, which is rapidly growing in terms of industrial development and innovation. Indonesia is the perfect place to sharpen my technical skills while gaining broader cultural insights,” he said.

During his studies at ITB, Kelvin has found the learning experience to be highly valuable. He describes the academic environment as professional and rigorous, particularly at FTMD, where lecturers are both highly skilled and approachable. Outside the classroom, Kelvin enjoys interacting with Indonesian and international students, as well as learning about the local culture and language. “I also appreciate the warmth and hospitality of the people in Bandung, which helped me adapt quickly,” he shared.

One of Kelvin’s most memorable experiences has been participating in small-scale research projects addressing real-world maintenance issues. Under the guidance of experienced lecturers, he gained in-depth knowledge of reliability-centered maintenance (RCM 3) and asset management. In addition, he actively joins cultural exchange events on campus, which allow him to share Tanzanian traditions while learning about Indonesia’s cultural diversity.

The TIAS scholarship, Kelvin said, has been a crucial factor in supporting his studies. “This scholarship has truly changed my life. The financial support from TIAS allows me to fully focus on my studies and research without worrying about tuition fees or living expenses,” he noted. Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship has also connected him with a global community, enriching his experience as an international student.

Kelvin regards ITB as a globally respected institution in engineering and technology that naturally attracts students from around the world. He praises ITB’s research-oriented approach, the high quality of its faculty, and its well-equipped laboratories. Moreover, he appreciates ITB’s multicultural environment and supportive systems that help international students adapt and thrive.

For Kelvin, ITB’s main appeal lies in its balance between academic excellence and cultural richness. “ITB not only offers a world-class education but also provides opportunities for research, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. Its location in Bandung — a peaceful, vibrant city with pleasant weather — makes it an ideal place for international students seeking a well-rounded academic experience,” he concluded.