Women possess a strength that often grows from simple things: care, togetherness, and the willingness to support one another. When these strengths are brought together in an organization, opportunities for growth and meaningful change become even greater. This spirit forms the foundation of Perempuan Mandiri Universitas Terbuka (PERMATA UT) in building collaboration, developing women’s potential, and making meaningful contributions to both families and the workplace.
This spirit was highlighted during the inauguration of the PERMATA UT Central and Regional Management Boards, held at the Universitas Terbuka Convention Center (UTCC) on Wednesday (October 28, 2026). Attended by PERMATA UT administrators and Universitas Terbuka (UT) leaders, the event served as an opportunity to strengthen women’s roles in supporting institutional progress, fostering togetherness, and promoting women’s independence and empowerment within UT.
UT Rector Prof. Dr. Ali Muktiyanto, S.E., M.Si., expressed his appreciation for the establishment of the organization. According to him, PERMATA UT holds a strategic position in supporting the university’s vision, particularly through women’s roles in fostering a harmonious work environment and strengthening family empowerment.
“In the hands of mothers, in the hands of women, lies the strength of a nation,” Ali said in his remarks.
Prof. Dr. Ali Muktiyanto emphasized that women’s strength is reflected not only in their roles within the family but also in their social contributions, support for colleagues, and participation in various activities that promote institutional progress. Such support is an important part of UT’s efforts to become a world-class distance higher education institution while expanding access to education for the Indonesian people.
The establishment of PERMATA UT also reflects a spirit of inclusivity. The organization was formed to expand opportunities for women’s participation within UT, including for non-civil servant employees who had not previously been fully accommodated within the membership of Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP). This allows women from diverse backgrounds to have equal opportunities to contribute and develop their potential.
Chair of the PERMATA UT Central Board, Een Sueni, S.E., M.Si., described the inauguration of the central and regional representatives as the beginning of a journey to strengthen the bonds among UT women across Indonesia. She expressed hope that the occasion would not end as a mere ceremony but would continue as a collective movement that benefits members and their surrounding communities.
“Hopefully, with PERMATA’s inauguration, we will become more enthusiastic, strengthen our sense of togetherness, and get to know our fellow women across our nations better,” Een said.
Een Sueni explained that the PERMATA UT Central Board has four areas of activity: social affairs, education, economics, and UT Regional Offices. Meanwhile, PERMATA UT Regional Boards carry out three areas of activity tailored to the needs and characteristics of their respective regions. This structure is expected to provide a foundation for relevant programs, ranging from social and educational activities to strengthening family economies.
According to the chair’s report, the establishment of PERMATA UT was formalized through Universitas Terbuka Rector’s Decree Number 2071 of 2026 concerning the Management Board of Perempuan Mandiri Universitas Terbuka for the 2026–2030 term. The organization was officially launched on September 4, 2026, and brings together women’s representatives from 39 UT Regional Offices, one Overseas Universitas Terbuka Service Center, and various work units at UT’s Central Office. The central board consists of 34 members, while the inauguration of regional boards is carried out through a mechanism involving representatives at both the central and regional levels.
Looking ahead, Prof. Dr. Ali Muktiyanto expressed hope that PERMATA UT would become increasingly independent in managing its activities and developing the economic potential of its members. Initiatives such as organizing bazaars during graduation ceremonies are considered potential first steps toward strengthening the organization’s independence while supporting household economic resilience. Nevertheless, he reminded members that PERMATA UT’s primary purpose remains fostering togetherness, harmony, and shared prosperity.
This spirit aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 on Gender Equality. Empowering women through opportunities for organizational participation, capacity development, and involvement in socioeconomic activities is part of the effort to create a more inclusive and equitable environment.
For PERMATA UT, the inauguration is not the finish line but the beginning of demonstrating that women’s strength grows when every individual is given room to contribute. Women who support one another not only build a stronger organization but also create a positive impact that can be felt by families, workplaces, and society at large.
