Here’s the English translation of the article:
UT Bandung Students Visit UT Central: Experiencing the Heart of Distance Learning
South Tangerang, June 4, 2025 – An atmosphere full of enthusiasm filled the UTCC Building of Universitas Terbuka as 150 students from UT Bandung paid a visit. For many of them, this was not just an academic trip, but a rare opportunity to directly experience the heart of the distance learning (PJJ) system they had been undertaking remotely.
The atmosphere felt solemn as the event opened with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, the UT Hymn, and the UT March. This activity not only introduced UT up close but also affirmed the pride of being part of a university with an open and flexible education system. The visit was officially opened by the Director of Marketing and Cooperation, represented by the Head of Sub-division at the Directorate of Marketing and Cooperation (DPKS), Dora Sophianingtyas, S.E., M.BA.
Diving into UT’s Vision and Resources
In the presentation session, students were invited to delve into UT’s vision of realizing higher education that is open, flexible, equitable, and of high quality. UT does not just provide access; it also creates a system that allows anyone—wherever they are—to continue learning and developing. They were also encouraged to dream big, by emulating inspiring figures of UT alumni and students who have succeeded in various fields, from politics, arts, to media. Names like Moeldoko, Angga Yunanda, Bayu Oktara, and Krisdayanti are proof that UT is a solution for self-development to build careers and contribute positively to the nation and others.
The next session was led by Dr. Sri Sediyaningsih, M.Si., Head of UT’s Library and Archives Center, who presented various digital facilities supporting learning at UT. From the Digital Library, SUAKA-UT (Open Educational Resources), to Repository and online catalogs, all are designed to support students in completing assignments, scientific papers, theses/TAPMs, and dissertations.
She also explained that UT provides free access to various international e-journals and e-books such as JSTOR, ProQuest, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, and Gramedia Smart Library. Students only need to fill out an access form at https://sl.ut.ac.id/form-akses-eresources. Complete guides and information are also available on the official UT Library website: [tautan mencurigakan telah dihapus]
Inspiring Alumni and Behind-the-Scenes Look
Equally interesting, an inspiring session was delivered by Bijaksabara Hikmawan, a UT alumnus who is now active in various international activities. In his presentation titled “Local Roots, Global Reach: Preparing Academic and Professional Futures in the Global Era,” Bijaksabara shared his experiences as a UT student who also participated in prestigious programs such as IISMA (Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards), ASEAN forums, and other international activities. He proved that a distance learning background is not a barrier to competing and achieving at a global level; instead, it becomes an advantage because it trains independence and high competitiveness.
The visit became even more engaging when the students were invited to see firsthand the production process of UT’s learning materials at the Center for Learning Material and Multimedia Development (P2BAM) and the Learning Material Service Center (PUSLABA). Here, they witnessed how UT develops Basic Material Books (BMP), learning videos, and interactive media that support the distance learning system. This experience opened the eyes of many students to the immense hard work behind the education system they enjoy every day.
Reinforcing Identity and Future Potential
This activity reinforced the identity of UT students as part of a modern, inclusive, and impactful higher education ecosystem. This spirit aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4 on quality education and SDG 17 on partnerships, reflected in the collaboration between UT Central and UT Bandung in supporting student capacity development.
This visit was more than just seeing buildings and facilities. It was an experience that strengthened their resolve: that UT students, wherever they come from, have the same potential to grow, shine, and make a positive impact on the nation.
