The Creative Arts and Design Professional Practicum (CADPP) 2025 brought together nine students from Australia and New Zealand for an immersive six-week program in Indonesia. Running from January to February, the program offered participants a unique blend of academic study, cultural engagement, and hands-on industry experience in Indonesia’s thriving creative sector.

A Diverse Cohort of Emerging Creatives

This year’s cohort included students from Monash University, RMIT University, Australian National University, The University of Western Australia, and one New Zealand university. Seven participants were supported by the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan (NCP) mobility grants, receiving $4,000 each to assist with program costs.

Under the guidance of Ms. Dyah Pandam Mitayani (Mita), Acicis’ Academic Program Officer, students were prepared for their placements through tailored seminars, cultural workshops, and language training. Mita played a pivotal role in designing the academic curriculum, facilitating industry connections, and ensuring students had the tools to succeed in Indonesia’s professional environment.

Academic and Cultural Immersion: Laying the Foundation

The program began with two weeks of intensive Indonesian language classes at Atma Jaya Catholic University (Semanggi Campus), equipping students with essential workplace communication skills. Alongside language training, participants engaged in a series of seminars, tutorials, and cultural workshops designed to deepen their understanding of Indonesia’s creative industries.

Highlights included:

  • A Batik-making workshop, where students learned about this traditional textile art form.

  • A Wayang puppet-painting workshop, offering insight into Indonesia’s rich performing arts heritage.

Two field trips further enriched their experience:

  1. A visit to the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics, combined with a poetry workshop blending visual and literary arts.

  2. A trip to Jakarta Fashion Hub, where students participated in a mindful stitching and upcycling workshop with Setali Indonesia, exploring sustainable fashion and circular design principles.

Industry Placements: Real-World Creative Experience

Following the academic phase, students embarked on four-week professional placements with seven leading creative organisations across Jakarta and Yogyakarta. These placements allowed them to apply their skills in real-world projects while gaining mentorship from industry professionals.

2025 Host Organisations:

  • Studio Eko Nugroho (Yogyakarta)

  • Gemasemesta.co (Jakarta)

  • HudHud Creative Agency (Jakarta)

  • Lanting Animation (Jakarta)

  • Museum MACAN (Jakarta)

  • Setali Indonesia (Jakarta)

  • RAW Architecture (Jakarta)

Students contributed to diverse fields, including visual arts, digital design, animation, architecture, product design, and sustainable fashion, gaining invaluable industry exposure.

A Transformative Experience for Aspiring Creatives

The program concluded in late February with a closing ceremony attended by representatives from Atma Jaya Catholic University, the Australian Embassy, host organisations, and Acicis staff. Students shared reflections on their experiences, highlighting key learnings and the impact of their placements.

The CADPP 2025 program provided students with a rare opportunity to expand their creative practice within Indonesia’s dynamic arts scene. From collaborating with leading industry professionals to engaging with traditional and contemporary art forms, participants gained new skills, cross-cultural insights, and lasting professional connections.

As we look ahead to CADPP 2026, we invite students passionate about art, design, and cultural exchange to take the leap into this transformative experience. Are you ready to explore Indonesia’s creative industries and challenge yourself in a real-world setting?

Applications for CADPP 2026 will close on 1 June 2025. Apply now!