Universitas Terbuka (UT) continues to demonstrate its commitment to making a real contribution to society through inclusive and high-quality higher education. As one of Indonesia’s leading universities, UT does not only provide access to higher education but also drives change through scientific work and the development of excellent human resources (HR).
In line with this commitment, UT is proud to have produced four new professors who are ready to make significant contributions to the academic world and society. Achieving the title of professor is no easy feat, given the lengthy process and qualifications that must be met. This accomplishment is a sacred moment, not only for the institution but also for the recipients of the title.
On August 7, 2024, UT held a Professor Inauguration Ceremony at the Universitas Terbuka Convention Center (UTCC). Unlike the previous year, which celebrated the achievements of three female professors, this year, UT honored four male professors:
– Prof. Dr. Effendi Wahyono, M.Hum., from the Faculty of Law, Social Sciences, and Political Sciences (FHISIP)
– Prof. Dr. Darmanto, M.Ed., from the Faculty of Law, Social Sciences, and Political Sciences (FHISIP)
– Prof. Dr. Maman Rumanta, M.Si., from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP)
– Prof. Dr. Paken Pandiangan, S.Si., M.Si., from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP)
The ceremony began with an opening remark by UT Rector, Prof. Ojat Darojat, M.Bus., Ph.D., who stated, “Professors are vital for universities to maintain academic integrity. By upholding academic excellence, UT will continue to strengthen the quality of its education and its reputation in the eyes of the public. Moving forward, UT is expected to increasingly become a choice for society, especially the younger generation.”
Following the opening, the decision to appoint the professors was read by the Chairman of the UT Academic Senate, Prof. Dr. Chanif Nurcholis, M.Si. Each professor then delivered their inaugural scientific oration as follows:
– Prof. Dr. Effendi Wahyono, M.Hum., in the field of History, with the oration titled “History as a Bridge Between the Past, Present, and Future.”
– Prof. Dr. Darmanto, M.Ed., in the field of Public Administration, with the oration titled “Governance in Public Administration: Optimizing Digitalization of Administrative Processes and Public Services.”
– Prof. Dr. Maman Rumanta, M.Si., in the field of Environmental Biology, with the oration titled “Mitigating the Impact of Heavy Metal Pollution on the Jakarta Bay Ecosystem: Challenges and Solutions.”
– Prof. Dr. Paken Pandiangan, S.Si., M.Si., in the field of Science Learning Models and Strategies, with the oration titled “Development of the Physics Independent Learning Model to Enhance Independent Learning Skills and Problem-Solving Skills in Science/Physics and Its Implementation in Distance Education at Universitas Terbuka.”
In a meeting with the media, Prof. Ojat added, “Congratulations to the four professors inaugurated today. May their knowledge and academic positions as professors be blessed and become role models and inspirations for other lecturers. With the increasing number of professors each year, hopefully, UT will continue to advance.”
Prof. Chanif also remarked, “The academic title of professor is the highest achievement in a lecturer’s academic career. Hopefully, this inauguration ceremony will inspire lecturers to continue progressing.” Echoing the statement of the Chairman of the Academic Senate, the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Dr. Mohamad Yunus, S.S., M.A., said, “UT is proud of the increasing number of professors because they are the pillars of a university. May this inauguration be an opportunity to enhance UT’s academic quality recognition and motivate other lecturers to advance further.”
Meanwhile, the Vice Rector for Finance, Resources, and General Affairs, Prof. Dr. Ali Muktiyanto, S.E., M.Si., added that UT facilitates lecturers to develop their academic careers as part of fulfilling the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. “UT employs various methods to streamline and accelerate the academic promotion process for its lecturers.” Prof. Ali also explained that there is a reward scheme for lecturers who publish their academic work in reputable journals. However, he emphasized that UT still adheres to the regulations and requirements set by the government.
From this Professor Inauguration event, it can be concluded that the title of professor is not only about academic achievement but also about making a real contribution and driving change in society. With the increasing number of professors emerging from UT, it is hoped that the quality of UT’s education will continue to improve and that UT’s influence will be increasingly recognized, both nationally and internationally.
