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Recently, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Psychology Society hosted Cultural Night 2026; bringing together students and lecturers from the School of Psychology (SoP) for an event centred on cultural appreciation and community building.

Led by Tahiyat Haque, President of APU Psychology Society, with the support of Ms Subashini Ganesan (Lecturer and Advisor of APU Psychology Society, SoP at APU) and Ms Amirah Husna Mohamad Hata Abdullah (Lecturer cum Psychology Lab Technician and Advisor of APU Psychology Society, SoP at APU), alongside student volunteers, the event was designed for students from Diploma and Degree programmes across Levels 1 to 3; providing an opportunity for students from different academic stages to interact with one another and with lecturers in a relaxed setting beyond the classroom, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 10 and 17 (SDG 10 and SDG 17). 

Breaking the Ice through Cultural Exploration

The event began with the “Guess the Country by Emojis” icebreaker; giving attendees an opportunity to explore different countries and cultures through a fun and interactive challenge.

Working together to identify countries through emoji combinations, attendees were encouraged to communicate, collaborate, and engage with one another.

The activity provided an accessible way for attendees to interact, while setting the tone for an event focused on cultural appreciation and connection. 

Connecting through Shared Dining

Following the icebreaker, attendees gathered for a shared dinner; creating an informal space for conversations and interactions.

The dining session provided opportunities for newer students to meet senior students and lecturers whom they may not normally interact with during their usual academic activities.

Beyond sharing a meal, the informal setting encouraged attendees to exchange experiences, get to know one another, and develop connections across different cohorts within SoP. 

Encouraging Collaboration and Spontaneous Participation

The event continued with “Pass, Pause, and Perform;” an interactive activity that encouraged attendees to work together, respond spontaneously, and step outside their comfort zones.

Through the activity, attendees engaged in moments of teamwork, communication, and shared laughter; creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere throughout the event. 

Strengthening a Culture of Inclusion and Belonging

Beyond the planned activities, informal conversations during dinner, photography, and the closing celebration further contributed to the welcoming atmosphere of the event.

These moments allowed attendees to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new people, and enjoy shared experiences outside their usual academic settings.

Ms Vinorra Shaker (Head, SoP at APU) highlighted that the event demonstrated how opportunities for informal interaction can help students develop a stronger sense of belonging within their wider university community.

“By bringing together individuals who may otherwise interact primarily within their own programmes or year groups, the event encouraged attendees to view SoP as a connected community rather than a collection of separate cohorts.”