In its commitment to providing higher education access to all Indonesian, including those residing abroad, Universitas Terbuka (UT) has taken another important step by holding an audience with the Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia Dunia (PPI Dunia) or Overseas Indonesian Students’ Association Alliance. The event took place on Monday, June 26, 2023, at the Multipurpose Hall of Universitas Terbuka.
UT leaders, delegates of PPI Dunia, Alumni Connect, and UT ex-PPI lecturers attended the event. In his opening speech on behalf of the Rector, Ir. Adi Winata, M.Si., the Vice Rector for Information Systems and Student Affairs, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the presence of the PPI Dunia delegation and their intention to collaborate further with UT. He stated, “UT is currently present in more than 50 countries. Hopefully, with this proposed collaboration, we can expand the network of Universitas Terbuka. This expected collaboration will open new opportunities for UT to expand its international connections.”
Additionally, Hamzah Assuudy Lubis, the Deputy Coordinator of PPI Dunia, also delivered a speech. He highly appreciated the ease of access provided by UT’s educational system, which offers opportunities for all individuals seeking knowledge. PPI Dunia itself has more than 120,000 students spread across 65 countries worldwide. During his speech, Hamzah Assuudy Lubis expressed his admiration for the potential of UT students abroad.
Dr. Pardamean Daulay, S.Sos., M.Si., the Director of Universitas Terbuka’s International Services, shared a similar view. He stated, “UT students are present in 55 countries, totalling 3,391 individuals, including those in countries with Indonesian migrant workers (PMI).” This demonstrates that UT is capable of providing broad and equitable educational services to Indonesian communities across the globe.
Before the audience session began, the PPI Dunia delegation visited the Multimedia Teaching Materials Development (PPBAM) office to observe the process of developing UT’s supporting teaching materials in digital/non-print form (such as UT Radio and UT TV programs). These materials are particularly beneficial for students who may face cultural reading habits, distance, and time challenges.
Through this audience, it is hoped that the collaboration between UT and PPI Dunia will grow stronger and more synergistic in the future. In its efforts to improve the quality of education and provide broader access to the entire community, UT is committed to establishing mutually beneficial partnerships with various organizations and associations, including PPI Dunia. This will create more opportunities and benefits for UT students abroad, contributing positively to the nation’s development.
