During the inauguration ceremony, Professor Widyastuti delivered her inaugural lecture titled “Predicting the Risk of Severe Perioperative Critical Events to Improve Patient Safety in Pediatric Anesthesia Procedures.”

In her speech, Professor Widyastuti explained that perioperative critical conditions are respiratory, cardiac, allergic, or neurological complications requiring immediate intervention, which, if not promptly addressed, could lead to disability or death. 

Anesthesia procedures for adults and children differ, and these differences make pediatric anesthesia procedures more prone to complications that can result in disability or death. Thus, a special approach is required to predict risks and mitigate them. 

No predictive tools exist in Indonesia to forecast perioperative critical events in children. 

“This has motivated me to raise this topic, so it can become a reference for predicting perioperative critical events in children in the future,” she stated.

Professor Widyastuti outlined several factors influencing severe perioperative critical events in children. In general anesthesia, newborns are at higher risk of perioperative critical events compared to other age groups due to their developing anatomy. 

Data-based studies have shown that girls have a 25% higher risk of cardiovascular critical events compared to boys. 

“Other influencing factors include congenital anomalies, which involve structural or functional body abnormalities present from birth, the patient’s condition, and the type of anesthesia used,” she explained.

A recent systematic review of perioperative risk assessment tools from 10 studies found that the accuracy of prediction scores for severe perioperative critical events varied, with mortality rates ranging from 0.3% to 3.6%. 

These models use age at surgery, the need for mechanical ventilation within 48 hours before surgery, and oxygen support as the main predictors. 

Other factors are inotropic support, sepsis, emergency case status, the presence of a “do-not-resuscitate” order, preoperative blood transfusion, cancer, hematologic disorders, physical status, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation before surgery.

Using perioperative critical event risk prediction tools is crucial in improving post-operative clinical outcomes in pediatric patients. 

The latest development uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the risk of severe perioperative critical events. 

Several studies have shown the benefits of machine learning in mapping post-operative complication risk factors.

According to Professor Widyastuti, assessing critical event risk is essential to minimize such risks. This effort should prioritize younger children. 

“In Indonesia, there is a need for a standardized predictive tool to forecast the risk of perioperative critical events in children, as well as a simple and practical clinical guideline that is easy to use,” she emphasized.

The Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Professor Ova Emilia, mentioned that Professor Widyastuti is one of 525 active professors at UGM and one of 72 active professors out of 102 professors that FK-KMK UGM has ever had.

Author: Jelita Agustine 

Editor: Gusti Grehenson 

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM Professor Yunita Widyastuti Calls for Risk Prediction Tools in Pediatric Surgery pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

During his inaugural speech, Professor Abimanyu presented a lecture titled Islamic Economics as a Form of Compliance, a Way of Life, and a Beneficial Business Activity. 

His speech was based on his journey in exploring the knowledge and benefits of Islamic economics in Indonesia.

“Islamic economics is a branch of economic science that adheres to Islamic laws and principles. Its practitioners follow it out of religious compliance or obligation, such as ensuring transactions are halal, beneficial, and free from usury. Others perceive Islamic economics as a way of life based on sharing, cleanliness, and health,” he explained.

Professor Abimanyu stated that Islamic economics has become an increasingly relevant discipline within macroeconomics, which covers policies and regulations. 

Its appeal is not limited to Muslim students but also attracts non-Muslims. By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Western countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom began promoting Islamic financial hubs. 

“Many Western universities have also established centers for Islamic economic studies,” he noted.

He explained that in Indonesia, the history of Islamic economics, particularly Islamic banking, began with banking deregulation in 1983. 

From that point, Bank Indonesia allowed six banks to determine their own interest rates and permitted profit-sharing systems in credit transactions.

“This deregulation laid the foundation for the development of Islamic banking in Indonesia,” he said.

In another part of his speech, Professor Abimanyu expressed that he no longer views Islamic economics merely as an alternative or complementary system to conventional economics. 

Instead, he has developed a new perspective, seeing Islamic economics as an expression of religious obedience and submission to divine revelation. 

Key aspects such as compliance, lifestyle, and societal benefits are fundamental to Islamic teachings, following halal transactions that strictly avoid gharar (transactional uncertainty), maysir (speculation), and riba (usury).

“It is not just about being halal, but also tayyib—promoting ethical and healthy consumption habits,” he emphasized.

Regarding the utilization and growing interest in Islamic economics in Indonesia, Professor Abimanyu noted that compliance, lifestyle, and business principles within Islamic economics have become focal points for Islamic scholars. 

“My research focuses on aspects of religious adherence, lifestyle, and business decisions in choosing Islamic banking products, consuming halal goods, and the benefits of umrah travel,” he stated.

UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia highlighted that Professor Abimanyu is one of 525 active professors at UGM and one of five active professors at SV UGM.

Professor Abimanyu has held several notable positions, including Head of the Hajj Fund Management Agency (BPKH) from 2017 to 2022, Commissioner of BRI Syariah from 2015 to 2017, and Chief Economist of BRI from 2014 to 2017. 

He served as Head of the Fiscal Policy Agency at the Ministry of Finance from 2003 to 2010 and as an expert staff member for the Minister of Finance from 1999 to 2003. 

Before becoming Deputy Minister of Finance, he was the Head of the Department of Economics and Business at SV UGM, where he also lectured.

Several prominent national figures attended the inauguration ceremony, including Indonesia’s 11th Vice President Boediono, the 13th Vice President Ma’ruf Amin, and Professor Pratikno, the UGM Board of Trustees Chair. 

Several coordinating ministers were also present, such as the Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, and the Presidential Adviser for Politics and Security, Wiranto. 

Other attendees included Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Ganjar Pranowo, Anies Baswedan, Mahfud MD, and Deputy Minister of Law Edward Omar Sharif Hiariej.

Coordinating Minister Muhaimin Iskandar praised Professor Abimanyu for becoming a professor at SV UGM. He described it as an extraordinary accomplishment, especially given Professor Abimanyu’s focus on Islamic economics. 

“UGM plays an integral role in advancing knowledge and its application in all aspects of development. Congratulations to Professor Abimanyu and UGM,” he said.

Similarly, Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto appreciated Professor Abimanyu’s inauguration. 

“His lecture on Islamic economics and its relevance to modern lifestyles is significant and will help drive the growth of the Islamic economy,” he remarked.

Author: Agung Nugroho

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Firsto

Artikel Deputy Finance Minister Anggito Abimanyu Inaugurated as UGM Professor in Economics pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The two professors are Professor Tri Satya Mastuti Widi, inaugurated as professor of livestock production systems, and Professor Panjono, inaugurated as professor of livestock production at Animal Science UGM.

These two animal science experts complemented each other and discussed the importance of animal science for society’s broader needs. 

In his inaugural speech, “Development of the Livestock Industry Towards a Golden Indonesia 2045,” Professor Panjono explained that the fulfillment of the meat supply as part of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program, which aims to improve the quality of education and children’s health by providing nutritious food, is crucial to supporting the program. 

“Meat contains many essential nutrients for the body, such as proteins, iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamins,” he said.

Chicken, beef, and buffalo meat primarily dominate meat consumption in Indonesia. However, unlike broiler chickens, which can meet demand due to a surplus, beef and buffalo meat still experience a deficit. 

This deficit arises from the lower production of beef and buffalo meat, which stands at 496.25 thousand tons compared to the national demand of 759.67 thousand tons.

This shortfall has been met through meat or live cattle imports. However, relying on imports is not ideal for national food independence, according to him. 

“Meeting meat demand by increasing domestic production will enhance food sovereignty and provide added value for the livestock industry,” he stated.

He further elaborated that strategic steps must be taken to develop a livestock industry that meets national needs and increases farmers’ income. 

These include improving genetic quality, applying efficient farming techniques, developing production systems, and optimizing business scales. 

“These steps must be outlined in short, medium, and long-term programs so that the goal of independently meeting national meat demand can be achieved alongside the realization of the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision,” Professor Panjono concluded.

Similarly, Professor Tri Satya Mastuti Widi raised related issues in her inaugural speech, “Designing Sustainable Livestock Production Systems with a Holistic Approach Based on Local Wisdom.” She explained that a sustainable livestock production system could help address food security issues in Indonesia.

Professor Widi stated that food and energy availability are crucial and longstanding issues for many countries worldwide, and Indonesia is no exception. 

She explained that red meat, particularly beef, is a traditional source of animal protein in Indonesia, but there is still a gap between production and consumption. 

“Reflecting on projections of beef production and consumption in Indonesia for 2023–2027, a gap between production and consumption remains,” Professor Widi explained.

She further noted that this deficit is partly due to differences between government programs and farmers’ goals. 

Professor Widi then discussed various efforts to meet food needs, explaining that every effort to increase food production has impacts on the environment, biodiversity, animal welfare, and human health. 

Therefore, a sustainable approach that appreciates local wisdom is needed to ensure that future food production does not compromise human health, biodiversity, animal welfare, or the environment. 

“Research and development should be directed towards the contribution of agricultural/livestock production systems to sustainable development through a holistic approach that recognizes farmers’ dual objectives and related trade-offs,” she emphasized.

In her closing remarks, Professor Widi presented several ideas related to the sustainability of livestock production systems, particularly in livestock development. 

These include paying attention to local production systems and local wisdom, analyzing trade-offs and impacts in every production system’s progress, improving local production systems, land use sharing, and utilizing marginal land, as well as synergistic, comprehensive, and conducive government policies. 

She added that the success of this design requires collaboration from all stakeholders and government support to make it a reality.

Author: Leony

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Firsto

Artikel UGM Professors Discuss Livestock Industry Strategies for Golden Indonesia 2045 pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

In fact, understanding these benefits and prescribing exercise as part of disease management has been practiced for over 2,500 years in various parts of the world. 

However, over time, exercise has received less attention as a component of disease treatment and prevention. 

“Exercise is often considered merely as a form of entertainment, a way to fill leisure time, or to shape the body,” said Professor Denny Agustiningsih from the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), who was inaugurated as professor of sports physiology on Thursday (Jan. 30).

In her inaugural speech, “Does Exercise Always Bring Health Benefits?” Professor Agustiningsih presented various studies on factors contributing to the high incidence of chronic diseases, ultimately reemphasizing the importance of physical activity in the medical field. 

Researchers believe no other intervention, such as physical activity, can positively impact multiple organs and body systems. 

“In 2007, integrating physical activity into routine healthcare emerged as a way to prevent and treat chronic diseases. The main principle of this initiative stressed that exercise is not only a means to improve fitness but also an essential tool in preventing and treating various chronic diseases,” she explained.

According to her, exercise can indeed be an extraordinary means of maintaining and improving health, but it must be done wisely—following the right dosage and always paying attention to the body’s signals that require recovery time and repair. 

A proper understanding of the benefits and risks, along with policies supporting safe and inclusive sports, will ensure that exercise truly brings health benefits to all individuals. 

“There is still much work to be done in promoting awareness campaigns about the importance of proper exercise and the risks of excessive exercise without making people afraid or hesitant to engage in physical activity,” she remarked.

Professor Agustiningsih noted the increasing efforts by the government, academics, and various community groups to promote exercise. 

Additionally, she observed the public’s growing enthusiasm for participating in and attending various sports-related events. This shows that society is becoming more aware of and attentive to the health benefits of exercise. 

Moreover, on social media, there are also groups of people who are highly enthusiastic about exercising and regularly share their activities online. 

On the other hand, reports of accidents and even deaths during exercise have surfaced, sparking various comments, both scientific and non-scientific. 

“We need to understand and address the other side of exercise, which requires careful attention to ensure that everyone can fully benefit from exercise as one of the pillars of health,” she said.

Author: Agung Nugroho

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM Professor: Physical Activity Can Prevent and Treat Chronic Diseases pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The graduates included 691 master’s graduates, 6 of whom were international students, 73 specialty graduates, 18 subspecialty graduates, 59 doctoral graduates, and 15 graduates from the previous period. 

The average study duration for the master’s program was 2 years and 2 months, and 7 graduates achieved a GPA of 4.00. 

For the specialty program, the average study duration was 4 years and 1 month, with 59.9% of the graduates achieving the distinction of Cum Laude. 

The youngest graduate in the subspecialty program was from the Surgery program, who completed their studies at the age of 33 years and 4 months. 

The average study duration for the doctoral program was 4 years and 8 months, and six graduates achieved a GPA of 4.00.

At this graduation, Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs and Secretary General of Kagama, delivered a message to the graduates urging them to be proactive in facing changes and challenges in the global job market. 

This alumnus of UGM’s Faculty of Philosophy cited the Future of Jobs Report from the World Economic Forum, which states that technological changes, particularly the expansion of digital access, will be the most transformative trend by 2025. 

Moreover, 60 percent of global companies see this as the main driver of their business transformation by 2030. 

“Jobs that exist today are predicted to experience a decline in demand, and 39% of the skills you possess today will become obsolete or will at least need improvement,” he said.

Patria added that AI (Artificial Intelligence) and robotics advancements will affect almost all sectors, from government to industry and even the academic sector. AI specialists, big data analysts, and software developers are predicted to be the fastest-growing and most in-demand jobs. 

However, the future job market will also require more human-centered skills, such as creativity, leadership, flexibility, and resilience. 

“As UGM graduates, you have the strength to bridge traditional values and modern technology to lead innovation while maintaining harmony with nature and society. Let’s work together to build the nation and even contribute to the country’s advancement,” he said.

In her address, UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia stated that UGM has a mandate to develop knowledge that impacts society, including preparing excellent future talent. 

This is being prepared, in part, to address three major challenges in 2025: increasing global geopolitical tensions and divisions, misinformation and disinformation threatening stability and progress, and environmental crises leading to extreme weather and ecosystem destruction. 

“On the other hand, in the technology sector, we are faced with an era of intelligence, an era where artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and blockchain innovations are growing. These advancements can be said to bring changes as well as evolving challenges,” said Rector Emilia.

According to her, the task of education is not merely to produce graduates equipped with skills and knowledge but also to ensure they are of strong character, adaptive, and competitive so they can become agents of change in solving transnational and global issues. 

“Recently, an alumnus from the Faculty of Geography and an alumnus from Geological Engineering completed an expedition to Antarctica and became part of the Russian Antarctica Expedition (RAE). This achievement is one example of alumni making a mark on the international stage through the application of knowledge,” she concluded.

Dian Riana Ningsih, a representative of the graduates from the Doctoral Program in Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA UGM), also delivered remarks during the graduation ceremony. 

She believes that the graduation of UGM students is not meant to exacerbate existing social problems but rather to signify the responsibility placed on the graduates’ shoulders to contribute to society’s well-being. 

“We are all proud to be part of UGM, a university that continuously excels and establishes itself as a leading higher education institution in Indonesia,” said Dr. Ningsih.

She added that the graduates’ collective memory will never forget that UGM is the custodian of Pancasila’s sacred values, a university that history has entrusted with nurturing the principles of Unity in Diversity. 

The public regards UGM as a campus of struggle and the people’s campus. Dr. Ningsih hopes UGM will continue to belong to the people, not to officials, relatives, or even conglomerates, a campus preserved with empathy and dedication. 

“I invite my fellow graduates to always uphold the good name of UGM and to apply the knowledge we have gained to make Indonesia a better and more dignified country on the international stage,” she concluded.

Author: Triya Andriyani 

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM Rector Highlights Key Challenges for Graduates in 2025 and Beyond pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The Mechanical Engineering alumnus of UGM recounted his career journey, rising from an entry-level employee to becoming the marketing director of a major automobile trading company.

Suwandy emphasized that graduates should choose workplaces with values that promote growth in a positive environment. As a 1995 graduate of Mechanical Engineering, he credited his career success to the company’s values. 

“Two principles I always hold onto are the willingness to improve and respect for people. These philosophies have helped me identify opportunities and continuously grow,” he said.

He explained that career success depends not solely on technical skills but also on the values and mindset applied at work. 

He stressed the importance of maintaining good relationships with customers and the surrounding environment, as trust is the cornerstone of the professional world.

For Suwandy, providing excellent service is about offering products and creating sustainable value. He encouraged graduates from all UGM programs to believe in their abilities and aim high. 

“We need to be confident and continuously strive for self-improvement because competition will always be there,” he advised.

Dr. Wirastuti Widyatmanti, Head of UGM’s Strategic Management Bureau, echoed these sentiments. She urged graduates to be confident and strive to make a tangible contribution in various sectors. 

She also highlighted the importance of the Kagama alumni network as a vital asset for maximizing career opportunities. 

“We encourage prospective alumni to remain confident, keep learning, and prove that UGM graduates can achieve brilliant careers,” she said.

Destina Kawanti, Deputy Secretary General of Kagama, delivered a similar message, reminding graduates that their academic achievements come with great responsibility. 

She emphasized that Kagama is not just an alumni community but a family ready to support and collaborate. 

“We are all the face of UGM in society, so carry the good name of this alma mater to both national and international levels,” she urged.

Through this briefing session, UGM encouraged its prospective graduates to recognize the significant potential they possess as UGM alumni. 

Graduates were inspired to pursue personal success and make a positive impact on society. UGM hopes this moment will equip them to face a future full of opportunities.

Author: Bolivia

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel Toyota Astra Motor Marketing Director Anton Jimmi Suwandy Shares Career Success Tips pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

On Tuesday (Jan. 21), Professor Murti delivered a speech in front of an audience that filled the Senate Hall of the UGM Central Office titled “The Importance, Challenges, and Solutions to Horticulture Problems through an Effective Plant Breeding Program.”

Professor Murti explained that horticultural plants play a significant role in providing healthy food, vitamins, and minerals and in recreational activities for the community. 

They also contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, beauty, therapy and medicine, recreation, genetic diversity, labor absorption, and the economy.

Achieving food security through horticultural production often faces challenges such as pest attacks, low productivity, poor quality, rapid spoilage, long supply chains, changing consumer preferences, and a decrease in land area. 

Professor Murti argued that one way to improve production and quality is by using superior varieties with high productivity and quality that are resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. 

“Efforts to produce superior varieties can be carried out through conventional breeding methods combined with the latest methods, such as genetic engineering, marker-assisted selection, and genome editing,” he added.

Challenges also arise from consumers who want sweeter tastes and more attractive colors, such as mangoes with blushing skins and low fiber, seedless watermelons, medium-sized and sweet papayas, and fruits with high antioxidants. 

New and distinctive colors, tastes, and textures will continue to attract consumer interest and create international market opportunities. 

“Therefore, plant breeders must be precise in understanding the characteristics of the products according to the targeted market segment,” he said.

Plant breeding activities must also consider consumer preferences, product purposes, and supply chain actors according to their market segments.

Breeders must be observant in determining the key characteristics of the products they will produce without neglecting other quality standards.

“Quality improvement in line with market demands can be done through plant breeding by utilizing appropriate genetic resources,” he explained.

Professor Murti believes that horticultural farming is more intensive than food crops, making horticultural farmers risk-takers. For instance, farmers exert considerable effort, such as using large amounts of pesticides to control pests to ensure high-quality harvests. 

However, increased pesticide use results in pest resistance, leading to the emergence of new biotypes and environmental pollution. 

The growth of global trade in planting materials and fresh produce also increases the risk of foreign pests and pathogens entering and spreading in new environments.

“There needs to be synergy across scientific fields to accelerate plant breeding efforts, resulting in more hybrid varieties, lower plant breeding and hybrid seed production costs, increased farmer income, and higher national horticultural production that will meet demand, as well as faster solutions to agricultural issues related to breeding,” concluded the new professor.

With Professor Murti’s appointment, the Chair of the UGM Board of Professors, Professor M. Baiquni, stated that the new professor became one of 524 active professors at UGM and one of 30 active professors from the 62 professors ever owned by the Faculty of Agriculture, UGM.

Author: Lazuardi

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Firsto

Artikel New UGM Professor Highlights Plant Breeding Technology as Key to Boosting Agricultural Production pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

This inauguration marks an important moment in the graduation of new veterinarians ready to contribute to the health of animals and society at large. The newly inaugurated veterinarians consist of 148 women and 43 men. 

This brings the total number of veterinarians graduated by FKH UGM to 6,406. The average study duration for the new veterinarians was 5 years, 8 months, and 11 days, with the fastest graduate completing the program in 5 years and 5 months. 

The youngest veterinarian in this batch is 21 years, 11 months, and 14 days old. The best graduate was Annisa Amalia Zahra, with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.00.

Dean of FKH UGM, Professor Teguh Budipitojo, stated that 55.2% of the new veterinarians had already secured jobs even before their official graduation. 

Most are employed in animal hospitals or veterinary clinics, while the rest work in companies, become entrepreneurs, or intend to continue their studies. 

The dean emphasized that this inauguration symbolizes the beginning of a new responsibility for veterinarians. They play a strategic role in maintaining animal health, which in turn impacts human and environmental health. 

“We know that after 30 years of Indonesia being free from foot-and-mouth disease (PMK), it suddenly surged again at the end of 2024 and continues to this day. It is our duty as veterinarians to assist every government effort,” said Dean Budipitojo.

He explained that to address the spread of PMK, FKH UGM, the Indonesian Association of Veterinary Faculties (AFKHI), and the Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association (PBPDHI) organized a joint seminar to establish recommendations for tackling the growing number of PMK cases. 

“This activity is our shared commitment, and it is our responsibility to contribute to all efforts to control animal diseases,” he added.

He also reminded that the veterinary profession carried by the graduates is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in achieving health targets, environmental protection, and poverty reduction. 

“The professional oath you have taken is not just a formality, but a moral and professional commitment that will guide your every step forward,” he stated.

The dean hopes that the new veterinarians will uphold principles of integrity, dedication, and a continuous desire to learn. The medical field, including veterinary medicine, is constantly evolving, and self-competence must be consistently improved. 

With new enthusiasm and the knowledge gained during their education, the graduates are ready to serve and contribute to the health of animals and society in Indonesia.

Dr. Muhammad Munawaroh, the Chair of PBPDHI, congratulated the new veterinarians from FKH UGM and advised them to maintain moral values and uphold professionalism in carrying out their duties and responsibilities. 

“Understand and practice the veterinary code of ethics. This is important because it serves as guidance for veterinarians on what is permissible and what is not when conducting animal examinations. You must always consider the dignity of the veterinary profession,” he concluded.

Author: Triya Andriyani  

Photographer: Firsto

Artikel UGM Graduates 191 New Veterinarians pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The new engineers come from the Faculty of Engineering (727), Faculty of Forestry (70), and Faculty of Animal Science (62). With the addition of 727 new graduates, the Faculty of Engineering has successfully produced 4,281 engineers to date. 

The Faculty of Forestry, with the addition of 70 new graduates, has produced 374 engineers, while the Faculty of Animal Science, with 62 new engineers, has produced 747 engineers. In total, UGM has successfully produced 5,402 engineers.

Professor Selo, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, stated that with the inauguration of engineers by UGM and the Indonesian Engineers Association (PII), the graduates can now truly be considered engineers when having just a Bachelor of Engineering degree felt incomplete. 

“But with today’s inauguration, they are officially engineers because they are also inaugurated with PII,” he said at Grha Sabha Pramana.

Professor Selo did not say much on this occasion. He simply reminded everyone of the meaningful words in the Gadjah Mada hymne and the PII hymne. 

“It says to serve, to uphold culture for the glory of the archipelago. Then there’s the PII hymne, and we are all Indonesian engineers needed by this country,” he explained.

Once again, he congratulated the newly inaugurated engineers. The UGM engineering graduates are the pride of UGM and the pride of Indonesia, bearing a great responsibility to bring this nation toward becoming a developed country. 

“As engineers, we will certainly face many challenges ahead, not only technical challenges related to engineering but also non-technical challenges that can sometimes be even more difficult to overcome,” he added.

Several officials attended the inauguration of the new engineers, including Teguh Haryono, the Secretary General of PII; Santi Sirat, the Executive Director of PII; and the Deans and Vice Deans of the Faculties of Engineering, Forestry, and Animal Science. 

In his speech, Teguh Haryono conveyed that Indonesia’s grand vision for 2045 is to make industry one of the main pillars determining the nation’s competitiveness. 

He said technological advancement, strengthening manufacturing capacity, and developing superior human resources are key to achieving this vision. 

“We, as engineers, have a strategic role in integrating technological innovation with societal needs,” he stated.

In Haryono’s view, engineers are agents of change who can bridge the gap between academic potential and practical applications in the industrial world. 

The triple helix model, consisting of academia, industry, and government, must be continuously strengthened to create an ecosystem that supports industrial transformation. 

“In this context, UGM has demonstrated its outstanding commitment to producing high-quality engineers ready to contribute to various sectors,” he explained.

“According to the data we received, UGM has produced approximately 5,402 engineers, and across Indonesia, there are currently around 28,000 engineers, with UGM contributing the most among the 45 universities that offer the Professional Engineering Education Program (PSBPI).”

Author: Agung Nugroho

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM Largest Contributor to Professional Engineers in Indonesia, Produces 5,402 Engineers to Date pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The three newly installed professors are Professor Sri Kuswandari, Professor Heni Susilowati, and Professor Dewi Agustina.

Professor Dewi Agustina, inaugurated in geriatric oral diseases, delivered a speech titled “Improving Oral Health to Achieve Optimal Quality of Life for the Elderly.” 

According to Professor Agustina, a noticeable global population increase, including in Indonesia, leads to a growing number of elderly individuals. 

This creates unique challenges in healthcare, including oral health. 

“Oral health has not yet become a priority, resulting in deteriorating oral health and function as people age. This is also influenced by the concept of ageism, commonly accepted by the elderly,” she said.

Ageism reflects the attitude of elderly individuals who accept their deteriorating oral condition as natural and inevitable, seeing it as part of aging rather than a problem. This causes the elderly to feel less motivated to improve their oral condition. 

“Deteriorating oral health in the elderly is not merely due to aging but is also the result of accumulated oral diseases that have long been neglected,” she explained.

Professor Agustina also mentioned that many systemic diseases or their treatments manifest in the oral cavity and, conversely, oral diseases can affect the management of systemic diseases, even increasing the risk of systemic illness. 

“This connection is increasingly evident in elderly care, as most elderly individuals have compromised medical conditions,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Professor Susilowati, inaugurated in the field of oral microbiology and immunology, delivered a speech titled “The Role of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa in Oral Cavity Infections.” 

In her presentation, Professor Susilowati emphasized the importance of comprehensive oral health care for all children through occlusal guidance.

Occlusal guidance involves guiding the eruption and development of teeth from the milk teeth phase through the mixed and permanent phases to achieve stable, functional, and aesthetically acceptable permanent teeth.

Orthodontic treatment results in children will not be stable if bad oral habits are not stopped. Therefore, dentists need to introduce comprehensive dental care concepts to children.

Cooperation between dentists, maternal and child healthcare providers, maternity hospitals, and midwives is essential.

Early intervention is needed to prevent malocclusion or abnormal teeth and jaw alignment, even from birth. Physiological stimulation is crucial to supporting the normal growth of the craniofacial complex. 

“Recognizing and stopping children’s bad oral habits early on will prevent the development of malocclusion,” she explained.

Professor in pediatric dentistry Sri Kuswandari delivered a speech titled “Improving Oral Health to Achieve Optimal Quality of Life for the Elderly.” 

According to her, dry mouth, a condition caused by reduced saliva production, commonly occurs in the elderly and is often a side effect of uncontrolled systemic diseases like diabetes mellitus and regular medication use, such as antihypertensives. 

“Dry mouth makes the elderly more prone to oral infections such as gum disease and cavities due to poor oral hygiene,” she explained.

According to Professor Kuswandari, gum disease and cavities can cause the elderly to experience pain in their teeth and mouth, eating difficulties, and a loss of confidence, ultimately lowering their quality of life. 

“In healthcare, quality of life is generally assessed based on overall health, while oral health is often overlooked,” she added.

She presented research conducted at elderly health centers in Yogyakarta, which showed that around 70% of the elderly have very low oral health-related quality of life. Poor oral health is the result of inadequate oral care, which makes the mouth unable to fulfill its functions.

Professor Kuswandari shared tips for the elderly to improve their oral health and achieve optimal quality of life, including maintaining oral hygiene, managing diagnosed systemic diseases, seeking further examinations if abnormal symptoms or signs arise, quitting smoking, stopping mouth breathing, and managing psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. 

“Equally important is staying hydrated with at least 1.5 liters of water per day, having regular dental check-ups every six months, and never neglecting oral health,” she concluded.

Authors: Kezia Dwina Nathania and Tiefany Ruwaida Nasukha

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM Installs Three Professors from Faculty of Dentistry pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.