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

One of these graduates is Yudi Sapta Pranoto (45), a Development Counseling and Communication Program graduate at UGM’s Graduate School (SPs). He completed his studies in 3 years, 1 month, and 14 days.

Dr. Pranoto expressed his gratitude for completing his Ph.D. with outstanding academic achievement. He could not stop expressing his thankfulness and joy. 

“I feel emotional, happy, and deeply grateful for His grace that allowed me to finish my studies on time,” he said on Friday (Jan. 31).

Dr. Pranoto, a lecturer in the Agribusiness Program at the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Sciences, Universitas Bangka Belitung, shared his journey to studying in his current program. 

While studying at SPs UGM, he received an institutional education scholarship from Universitas Bangka Belitung for his second year until completion. However, this was not an easy feat. 

Dr. Pranoto mentioned that in 2021, he applied for the Indonesia Education Scholarship (BPI) but was rejected because the age requirement for applicants was no more than 40 years old. 

As Dr. Pranoto was already 41, he was ineligible for the scholarship. Nonetheless, this setback did not dampen his spirit.

After this failure, Dr. Pranoto initiated a group for his fellow doctoral students who shared the same fate. He created a WhatsApp group called “UGM Doctoral Studies Association.” The group fought for the rights of those who were ineligible for scholarships. 

Dr. Pranoto made various efforts, including writing a letter to the UGM Rector and seeking support to advocate their case to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. 

“Unfortunately, that did not yield any response,” he recalled.

Subsequently, as this became a collective issue, it turned into a national matter. Many other doctoral students from different universities experienced the same situation. This shared struggle became the foundation for a joint effort among doctoral students across Indonesia. 

“We held meetings with Commission X, the Education Commission, facilitated by the PKS faction in the House of Representatives (DPR RI). In short, the result of these discussions was that the BPI age requirement was raised to 48 years,” he explained.

Dr. Pranoto also added that besides the increase in the applicant age limit from 40 to 48 years, the 2022 BPI scholarship requirements stated that the scholarship was available for students who were still enrolled in the even semester of the 2021/2022 academic year. 

As a result, students who had already started their studies in the odd semester of 2021 were not eligible to apply for the 2022 BPI scholarship, causing Dr. Pranoto to fail once again in securing the scholarship.

However, he viewed this as a lesson that not all struggles bring immediate personal rewards; what matters is that others enjoy the benefits of the battle. 

In his second year, the Universitas Bangka Belitung Rector’s policy in 2022 offered financial support until his studies were completed, easing the burden of his tuition fees.

His dedication to helping others was reflected in his dissertation, “Determinants of Agricultural Extension Workers’ Role in Implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Muntok White Pepper in Bangka Belitung.” He discussed the role of extension workers and farmers’ implementation of GAPs.

According to him, Bangka Belitung Province produces one of the world’s finest spices, known as Muntok White Pepper. 

“This pepper has a distinctive aroma and high piperine content compared to other types of pepper globally and has been cultivated since the 18th century,” he explained enthusiastically.

Unfortunately, the production and export of this pepper have fluctuated, with a declining trend. One of the complex challenges is that farmers still use traditional methods and have not adopted proper GAP. 

He explained that this issue is driven by the farmers’ lack of knowledge about GAP and the suboptimal role of extension workers.

Dr. Pranoto appreciated the full support from his advisors during the dissertation writing process. They were easily accessible and had regular weekly meetings.

He also encouraged fellow students at UGM to stay motivated and not give up. 

“With every difficulty, there is ease, and always maintain a positive outlook toward God and pray for everyone,” he advised.

In addition to offering encouragement to fellow UGM students, Dr. Pranoto hopes that UGM will continue to pioneer education based on knowledge and community service while maintaining its tradition of academic excellence and strengthening its global network. 

“At UGM, we are trained to think critically, innovate, and act with integrity. These values become the foundation for serving society, the nation, and the country,” he concluded.

Author: Leony

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Artikel Doctoral Graduate Fights for Scholarship Age Limit Reform, Helps Others Succeed pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

With halal certification, business competition will be fairer, as everyone meets the same standards. Additionally, the requirement for halal certification can become a new source of economic growth.

Dr. Akhmad Akbar Susanto, an Islamic Economics and Halal Industry lecturer at UGM’s Graduate School, conveyed this during the national seminar ‘Boosting Sales of Halal-Certified Products’ on Friday (Dec. 20) at the Grand Rohan Hotel Ballroom.

According to Dr. Susanto, several standards must be met in the halal inspection process, such as safety, cleanliness, and sanitation, which will improve the overall quality of the product. This can, in turn, build customer trust in the product. 

“These standards can enhance the perceived quality of the product, even among non-Muslim consumers,” Dr. Susanto explained.

Dr. Nanung Danar Dono, Deputy Chair of the UGM Halal Center, stated that the obligation to provide halal certification guarantees applies not only to producers of finished goods but also to service providers. 

Services required to have halal certification include slaughter, processing, storage, packaging, distribution, sales, and serving. 

“Halal audits for service providers are based on the category of halal lidzatihi (inherently halal). For example, bus seats must not be made from forbidden animal leather, and water filters must not use pig bones,” he said.

MSMEs can acquire halal certification through the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH). Dr. Dono mentioned that the costs for obtaining a halal certificate, which is often considered expensive, are due to the use of intermediaries in the process. He urged MSMEs to apply for halal certification only through authorized agencies. 

“Please apply for halal certification through the official website or institutions like the UGM Halal Provider,” he concluded.

The seminar, organized by UGM’s Graduate School, also featured other speakers, including Dr. Duddy Roesmara Donna, an Islamic Economics lecturer at UGM’s Graduate School; Professor Budi Guntoro, Director of the Indonesian Ulema Council’s Food and Drug Assessment Agency for Yogyakarta; and Dr. Rika Fatimah, Executive Chairperson of the World Halal Industry Trade Alliance for Yogyakarta.

Author: Tiefany

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel MSMEs Should Obtain Halal Certification pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Therefore, recognizing the signs of toxic relationships is crucial.

“Toxic relationships have clear signs: feelings of guilt, unresolved conflicts, and a loss of independence,” said Dr. Restu Tri Handoyo, a clinical psychologist from the Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, during a seminar titled “Toxic No More: Building Relationships Without Scars” held on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. 

According to Dr. Handoyo, healthy relationships significantly contribute to mental well-being, offering emotional support, promoting personal growth, and fostering happiness. 

“Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, support, and balance,” he emphasized.

Dr. Ratna Noviani, a lecturer and researcher in Cultural and Media Studies at UGM’s Graduate School, warned about the traps of toxic relationships often perpetuated through social media.

As she noted, the media frequently romanticizes toxic relationships, especially manipulation.

“We must recognize violence on social media, such as doxing and dominance practices. It’s essential to enhance digital literacy to avoid the traps of unhealthy relationships that often emerge in the virtual world,” she explained.

Livia Iskandar, Director of Pulih Foundation, shared alarming statistics: one in four Indonesian women has experienced sexual violence. 

Most victims do not report these incidents due to victim-blaming, perpetrators being close acquaintances, or threats from the perpetrators.

In response to this issue, Iskandar urged all parties to empower women who have experienced violence by providing psychological, medical, and legal support.

The seminar, organized by the Sexual Violence Prevention & Response Task Force (Satgas PPKS) of Universitas Gadjah Mada in collaboration with the Institut Français Indonesia (IFI) Yogyakarta and UGM’s Integrated Health Services Bureau (BPKT), aimed to raise awareness and offer support to victims of violence. 

Additionally, it encouraged the community to foster empathy, empowerment, and a violence-free society by reminding everyone that no one walks alone.

Author: Lintang

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Photo: Freepik

Post-editor: Lintang 

Artikel UGM Seminar Explains Signs of Toxic Relationships pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Before pursuing his master’s degree at UGM, Henra completed his undergraduate studies at Hasanuddin University in Makassar. 

Upon entering his master’s program, he began research immediately in his first semester, focusing on “Testing the Activity of Bacillus Compounds as Antifungal Agents and Candida Albicans Candidates.” 

This research aligns with his strong interest in biotechnology, and the support from his academic advisor provided him with additional motivation to exceed his initial goals.

Henra, originally from Makassar, faced various challenges, especially in balancing his busy schedule. He often felt fatigued from juggling classes and research, yet his spirit remained unshaken. He credited his friends’ support with helping him stay on course. 

“I always made use of any free time between classes to continue my research, so by the time I reached the proposal seminar, I was nearly at the final stages of my research,” he shared with reporters on Thursday (Oct. 24).

Balancing academic life and personal life also presented a challenge for Henra. Although sometimes overwhelmed, he believed that every sacrifice would ultimately pay off. 

Henra proved that anything is possible with firm resolve and a supportive environment. He also learned to manage his emotions and found ways to stay motivated, even when facing difficult situations.

Not only did he graduate quickly, but he also achieved a high GPA of 3.85. He attributes his excellent academic performance to his dedication to learning and his experience in scientific competitions during high school and undergraduate studies. 

“Though I didn’t reach the national level, my experiences in academic competitions fueled my drive to keep striving and honing my skills in the academic field,” he explained.

Henra described his learning experience at UGM as invaluable, thanks to the diverse academic disciplines available. At UGM, he wasn’t limited to a single field; he explored subjects from various faculties, including human, plant, animal, and microbial health sciences. 

This cross-disciplinary learning provided a broader perspective and deeper understanding of biotechnology, enhancing his knowledge and academic foundation. 

“I was genuinely enthusiastic about the materials taught by professors who always updated them according to the latest developments in their fields,” he noted.

Henra also gained unique social experiences during his studies. As a newcomer in Yogyakarta with no acquaintances, he initially faced the challenge of adjusting to the cultural differences. 

Surprisingly, he found comfort and peace living in Yogyakarta. Humorous and joyful moments with friends brought balance, reminding him there is always time to enjoy the learning journey.

Born into a family that values education, Henra’s success is a point of pride, especially as he is the first in his extended family to complete a master’s degree. Nevertheless, his parents have reminded him to remain humble and uphold the values instilled in him. 

“My parents always advise me to use my knowledge for positive and beneficial purposes and not for any harmful intentions,” he said.

Henra also shared tips for students considering a master’s program. First, he emphasized the importance of physical and mental preparation, as this path demands dedication and commitment. Second, he stressed the importance of beginning research early. 

“As I did, if you prepare your topic and research framework early, you will be able to complete your studies faster, but your research outcomes will also be more substantial,” he explained.

With his strong resolve, Henra hopes to complete his doctoral program, which he has just begun, as efficiently as he finished his master’s. 

His ultimate ambition is to work as a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), where he aims to use his expertise to impact society and the nation. 

“Research is one way to address global challenges, and I want to be part of that solution,” he concluded.

Author: Lintang

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Artikel Young Scientist Henra Graduates Early with Research on Antifungal Agents pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

In her report, the Dean of SPs, Professor Siti Malkhamah, highlighted various achievements that SPs UGM has attained over the past year.

Professor Malkhamah reported that SPs UGM has produced 298 publications over the last year, including 122 national and 176 international publications. 

These publications include Book Chapters, Books, Journals, Intellectual Property Rights, and Proceedings. 

“The highest number of publications was in Journals. Meanwhile, the number of international publications exceeds that of national publications,” Professor Malkhamah explained.

Regarding international collaboration, Professor Malkhamah noted that UGM’s achievements on the global stage are commendable. 

SPs UGM has successfully established international partnerships with universities from different countries, including National Cheng Chi University, the University of Dundee, Universiti Teknologi MARA, and the University of Girona. 

Students have also accomplished various things in different fields. 

Among them are Suci Dwi Monda, who secured 3rd place in the ANGEL International Innovation Competition held at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and Azmi Zaki Waliudin Althaf, who was selected for a traineeship program at the University of Helsinki.

Melania Hanny also participated in the International Training Course “Karst & Climate Change” in China, which was organized by the International Research Center on Karst (IRCK). 

“The reputation of SPs UGM in the international arena is quite impressive. Various activities and achievements have been marked by all members of the SPs academic community at the international level,” she stated.

Professor Ahmad Maryudi from the UGM Faculty of Forestry, recognized as one of the World’s Top two percent of Scientists, emphasized the importance of scientific research as the foundation of a knowledge-based economy. 

He highlighted that scientific research is crucial to achieving mastery of science and technology. As articulated in his scientific oration, this mastery subsequently becomes a fundamental pillar for national development.

However, in practice, researchers often encounter obstacles in their research development, especially regarding funding, which affects the availability of adequate equipment, leading to less quality data. 

“In the end, the conclusions drawn become less accurate,” he revealed.

According to Professor Maryudi, to address the challenges of research and publication development, universities need an innovative leadership model that can facilitate transformation and facilitate researchers’ conduct of studies. 

“To promote research excellence, an innovative leadership model must facilitate transformation and break away from constraining traditions. Universities must be willing to take risks to seize opportunities, creating flexibility in the management of higher education institutions,” Professor Maryudi asserted.

Author: Hanif

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Photographer: Donnie

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel SPs UGM Releases Achievements of Hundreds of International Publications pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

This scholarship grants him the opportunity to study for one semester at Auckland University of Technology (AUT). New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade funds the scholarship as part of its international development cooperation with Indonesia.

Alfian will participate in a sustainable development course (SDC), which is divided into two phases as part of the scholarship. The first phase was a two-week residential learning program in June 2024 in Kupang. 

The second phase will be held entirely in New Zealand for 12 weeks, from September through December.

Alfian, as he is commonly called, shared that through the program, he will learn research skills using a participatory approach and explore ways to achieve development goals through cross-issue perspectives, such as human rights, gender, social inclusion, and environmental impacts. 

This aligns with his advocacy work for Indigenous communities through the Youth Teaching School (SEKAM) he founded.

Alfian recounted that he and his friend established SEKAM, an organization that serves as a space for knowledge exchange between young people and Indigenous communities, particularly regarding ancestral religious practices and ecological awareness. 

“One of our main programs is ‘Anak Muda Mengajar’ (Youth Teaching), designed to connect urban youth with Indigenous communities in rural areas,” Alfian explained during an interview on Tuesday (Sep. 17).

Through this program, Alfian noted that youth from across Indonesia come to teach basic literacy skills, such as reading, writing, and math, to Indigenous children while learning about Indigenous knowledge directly from community elders.

The youth teaching program has been running for three consecutive years since 2022 in the Bara and Cindakko Indigenous communities in South Sulawesi and the Huaulu Indigenous community in Seram Island, Maluku, this year. 

Alfian hopes the program bridges the knowledge exchange between urban youth, who gain an understanding of living in harmony with nature, and Indigenous children, who receive basic literacy education.

The New Zealand government, through Union Aid, offers the IYLP scholarship as an opportunity for young Indonesians actively participating in sustainable development movements to study sustainable development in New Zealand.

Alfian acknowledged that his selection for the scholarship is closely tied to his active involvement in community development programs for Indigenous communities in Eastern Indonesia, particularly on the islands of Sulawesi and Maluku through SEKAM. 

“I was selected because I represent Indigenous issues, specifically those related to ancestral religion and development,” said Alfian, a 2023 graduate of UGM’s CRCS program.

In addition to focusing on sustainable development between Indonesia and New Zealand, Alfian mentioned that the youth exchange scholarship program provides access to knowledge on policies, practices, and institutions relevant to development in New Zealand. 

This exchange scholarship also includes introducing Māori development approaches and the Treaty of Waitangi. 

“Participants will have the opportunity to stay at a Marae, a meeting place for Māori communities, and visit various government and non-government organizations, such as the Human Rights Commission and the New Zealand Parliament,” he added.

Before departing for New Zealand, Alfian participated in an English language skills course provided by Union Aid for academic and professional purposes. 

The course aims to support scholarship recipients in effectively communicating in an international environment, including writing research reports and program proposals.

After completing the second phase of the SDC in Auckland, New Zealand, Alfian will return to Indonesia to carry out a participatory action project in his community. 

Union Aid, BaKTI, and the INSPIRASI alumni team will support this project. 

“We will return to Indonesia to implement the project we have designed during the scholarship program. In this phase, we will apply the lessons learned in New Zealand to development actions in Indonesia,” concluded Alfian.

Author: Bolivia

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel UGM Alumnus Wins New Zealand Scholarship for Youth Teaching Program pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The team, consisting of 25 students and two staff members, was accompanied by two lecturers, Dr. Rina Susilowati and Dyah Listyarifah, MD, who provided free health check-ups, dental examinations, and physiotherapy services to people with disabilities at RKD Pinilih.

Dr. Rina Susilowati told reporters on Wednesday (Aug. 28) that 50 participants and their families received health check-ups and physiotherapy services. 

The health screening services included body mass index (BMI) measurements, blood pressure checks, glucose levels, uric acid, and blood cholesterol levels, as well as doctor consultations, which have been routine programs since last year. 

“Most of the participants are parents of children with disabilities. It is undeniable that caring for individuals with disabilities at home daily requires physical and mental strength. Therefore, the parents must maintain their health,” said Dr. Susilowati.

Twenty individuals with disabilities, most of whom were “cerebral palsy” patients, attended the physiotherapy services, which were provided by several physiotherapists who are currently students in the Master’s Program in Biomedical Sciences at FK-KMK UGM. 

“The physiotherapy services we provide are essential to prevent muscle shortening and loss of range of motion,” she said.

Dr. Susilowati acknowledged that some cerebral palsy patients require assistance to be present and receive the physiotherapy services provided by the student and lecturer team at RKD Pinilih. 

Teenagers and even adult cerebral palsy patients often make it difficult for their families to move them, let alone take them outside the house.

“We pick them up and drop them off at the examination site. We see that the parents of individuals with disabilities show extraordinary enthusiasm,” she said.

Maria Tri Suhartini, the manager of RKD Pinilih, appreciated the health check-ups and physiotherapy services provided by UGM, which she said were very helpful for individuals with disabilities in the Sedayu area. 

“We are very happy, and the services are varied this year. Especially with the addition of dental check-up services, which are very rare,” Suhartini said.

Students’ participation in this community service activity is expected to help them better understand and explore the needs of individuals with disabilities. Due to their physical limitations, individuals with disabilities often experience low levels of independence. 

The students’ understanding is hoped to help them design tools to assist individuals with disabilities. 

“This is my first time interacting closely with people with disabilities,” said Aryo, a student in the Master’s Program in Biomedical Engineering, who felt grateful for the opportunity to help in the event.

The improvement of community independence in fulfilling the rights of people with disabilities, as pioneered by the RKD Pinilih, still requires broader support. This community service activity helps people with disabilities obtain health services that are often difficult to access due to various limitations.

Author: Gusti Grehenson

Artikel UGM Provides Free Physiotherapy Services to People with Disabilities in Sedayu, Bantul pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The conference, organized by the Karst Research Group of the UGM Faculty of Geography in collaboration with the International Union of Speleology and the Asian Union of Speleology, aimed to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of karst regions across Asia.

The Dean of the UGM Graduate School, Professor Siti Malkhamah, stated that advancements in cave and karst science in Asia have led to the emergence of karst communities in various institutions. 

She noted that the conference is significant as it unites the global cave and karst community to share experiences and knowledge, raise awareness about caves and karst in Asia, and contribute to global conservation efforts. 

“Universities, communities, practitioners, and governments are invaluable resources for the development and protection of cave and karst sciences,” Professor Malkhamah said in a statement sent to journalists on Wednesday (Aug. 21).

Professor Malkhamah explained that the conference aims to enhance collaboration in cave exploration and karst conservation and disseminate findings from expeditions and explorations conducted by speleologists across Asia. 

She emphasized that the Karst Conference is not merely an academic meeting but a crucial step toward strengthening global karst research and conservation partnerships. 

She added, “By gathering experts and practitioners, this conference can bolster collective efforts in climate action and ecosystem restoration, ensuring the sustainability of karst regions for future generations.“

Aziz Fadhani, a participant from the Indonesian Speleological Society (ISS), shared that his goal for attending the conference was to build a network on karst and cave issues and update research insights in speleology. 

“At ISS, in addition to cave and karst exploration, we also advocate for issues related to the management and conservation of karst and cave areas in Indonesia,” he said.

The conference covered various themes, including Karst Hydrology and Hydrogeology, Karst and Cave Biodiversity, Karst and Cave Management, Karst Geomorphology and Geology, Physical Geography, Political and Socio-Cultural Aspects of Karst, and Cave and Karst Survey and Expedition Reports.

The conference featured speakers such as Dr. Georgi Veni, Executive Director of the National Cave and Karst Research Institute; Professor Eko Haryono, Coordinator of the UGM Karst Research Group; Dr. Nadja Zupan Hajna, a researcher at the Karst Research Institute Slovenia; and John Gunn, a scientist at the University of Birmingham.

Andy Eavis, Managing Director of AJE Ltd.; Professor Yuanhai Zhang, a researcher at the International Research Center of Karst China; Professor Suratman of the Faculty of Geography; and Johannes Mattes, Secretary of the International Union of Speleology, also spoke at the event.

At the end of the conference, participants were invited to visit the Indonesian Karst Museum, Seropan Cave, andNgingrong Cave and experience cave tubing. 

This tour aimed to provide participants with valuable experiences that would help them appreciate the natural and cultural richness of the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

Author: Tiefani

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel UGM Introduces Karst Potential and Uniqueness in Asia pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Challenges in both technical and social aspects persist, with a significant issue being the shortage of qualified and trained extension workers. This problem must be addressed promptly.

Professor Sunarru Samsi Hariadi, a leading Extension and Development Communication expert at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), discussed the current challenges in Indonesian extension work. 

According to Professor Hariadi, the main issues include limited access and infrastructure. In some remote or isolated areas, access to extension services is often restricted due to inadequate infrastructure. 

“The limited infrastructure hampers reaching communities in need. Indonesia’s vast cultural and linguistic diversity can also pose challenges in delivering extension messages effectively to various groups with different needs and understandings,” he said during the National Seminar on Extension and Development Communication at UGM Thursday (Aug. 8).

Professor Hariadi noted that extension workers sometimes cover large areas with limited resources. 

Changing community behavior can be a significant challenge in extension work, as some communities may have deeply ingrained practices or habits that are difficult to alter despite adequate information. 

“Low literacy levels and limited access to formal education also present challenges in delivering effective information. Communities with low literacy may struggle to understand extension messages conveyed through written or printed media,” he added.

The national seminar, held by UGM’s Graduate School for the Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Extension and Development Communication to celebrate the retirement of Professor Sunarru Samsi Hariadi, featured notable speakers such as Professor Ravik Karsidi, Special Staff to the Minister for Human Development and Culture; Professor Sri Suning Kusumawardani, Director of Learning and Student Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Culture (online); and Dr. Ramadani Saputra, Chair of the Extension Program Organizing Group.

Professor Karsidi emphasized the importance of data-driven development communication. He stressed that stakeholders should utilize accurate and reliable data to support effective development communication. Collecting, analyzing, and presenting relevant data to aid decision-making and raise public awareness about development issues is crucial.

According to Professor Karsidi, community extension or empowerment should adapt to advances in digital technology. Accelerating the development of information technology infrastructure is essential for improving the quality of learning and access.

“Extension should shift towards a Student-Centered Learning approach. Learning content should become public domain, and information technology can expedite material mastery,” he explained.

Author: Agung Nugroho

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel Indonesia Still Lacks Quality Extension Workers pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Among the 834 Master’s program graduates, Frista Chairunnisa (22) from the Biotechnology program at the UGM Graduate School (SPs UGM) was named the youngest graduate. She completed her degree at 22 years, nine months, and 27 days. 

The average age of Master’s program graduates in this period was 29 years, six months, and 15 days.

Chairunnisa, born Aug. 25, 2001, is the eldest of four siblings from Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung. Her parents taught her to read and count from a young age, allowing her to start elementary school at four. 

Although she did not participate in an accelerated program, Chairunnisa completed elementary, middle, and high school in standard time. However, she was only 16 when she graduated from high school and enrolled in university. 

“I started elementary school at four years old, and I did not take any acceleration programs in middle or high school,” she said.

After earning her Bachelor’s in Biology, Chairunnisa was strongly motivated to pursue a Master’s degree. Her interest in Biotechnology, particularly in cancer research, led her to choose Universitas Gadjah Mada for her postgraduate studies. 

“UGM has a cancer research center that actively explores Indonesian natural materials as chemopreventive agents against cancer. I believe Indonesian herbal plants have incredible potential that we can bring to international recognition,” Chairunnisa added.

Pursuing a Master’s degree in Biotechnology at SPs UGM was not without challenges. One significant challenge was mastering the use of laboratory equipment. 

“It took me a long time and many failures to produce accurate and reliable data,” said Chairunnisa, who graduated with a GPA of 3.87.

After several attempts, she successfully observed cancer cells for the first time, a pivotal moment in her studies. 

“I am grateful to be part of a supportive cancer research group,” she added.

During her Master’s studies, Chairunnisa was involved in several research projects on developing natural materials as anticancer agents. These included assessing the anticancer potential of kirinyuh leaf extract as a cytotoxic agent in combination with doxorubicin on luminal breast cancer cells.

Chairunnisa acknowledged that the support from her parents and academic advisors was crucial to her success. Her professors continually provided guidance and monitored her dissertation research progress. 

“They always advised on how to make my work more effective and were patient when I made mistakes,” she added.

After completing her postgraduate studies, Chairunnisa plans to return to Bangka Belitung Province as a lecturer. While teaching, she aims to explore various research areas in biology. She adheres to the principle of remaining humble in learning. 

“Never be ashamed to learn from anyone. Be like a cup placed below a teapot so that the water from above can fill it,” sheadvised.

With determination and dedication, Frista Chairunnisa demonstrates that an academic journey full of challenges can be overcome with strong resolve and support from loved ones.

Author: Dita  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Artikel 22 Year Old Frista Chairunnisa Graduates with Master’s Degree from UGM pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.