Aldino Javier Saviola was among the 841 graduate students of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) who graduated on Thursday (Jan. 23) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
Saviola graduated from the Master’s Program in Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA UGM), at the age of 22 years, 6 months, and 18 days.
In comparison, the average age of the 691 Master’s graduates in this period was 29 years, 6 months, and 15 days.
In addition to being the youngest graduate, Saviola was also one of two individuals recognized as the fastest Master’s graduate in this period. While the average study duration for a Master’s program is 2 years and 2 months, Saviola completed his studies in just 1 year and 2 months.
Saviola explained that he completed his undergraduate studies at FMIPA UGM in May 2023.
After earning his bachelor’s degree, he sought an opportunity to apply for the Master’s Education Scholarship towards a Doctorate for Outstanding Graduates (PMDSU) Batch 7 from the then Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology.
This prestigious scholarship enables outstanding graduates to complete their Master’s and Doctoral degrees within four years.
Born in Purwokerto on Mar. 27, 2002, Saviola expressed joy and gratitude for completing two study programs while remaining active in social activities and research.
“I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to receive this scholarship,” said Saviola.
The fast-track requirement to complete the Master’s and Doctoral degrees within four years motivated him to finish his studies as quickly as possible. Simultaneously, Saviola completed his thesis while also enrolled in the doctoral program at the same faculty.
Saviola’s passion and talent in chemistry enabled him to produce innovative research, particularly focused on the development of nanocatalysts for biofuel production.
His thesis research was motivated by the continued high use of fossil fuels for aviation fuel.
“I tried to develop bio-aviation fuel from biomass sources, specifically used cooking oil, which is not only abundant in nature but also represents a waste-to-wealth innovation aimed at preserving the environment,” Saviola explained.
Saviola’s research on the hydrotreatment process successfully converted used cooking oil into bio-aviation fuel with a chemical composition very similar to fossil-based aviation fuel.
Over the past three years, Saviola’s work on nanocatalyst development has resulted in several research publications, many of which have been published in international journals. To date, he has 26 Scopus-indexed journal publications.
“I believe this is an incredible achievement for me. Hopefully, in the future, I can be even more productive and produce more work,” said the youngest of two siblings.
Saviola hopes his research can become an alternative to support the transition to greener energy processes, considering the government’s and global consensus’s ongoing efforts to address climate change.
“While the research still requires further evaluation and development, I hope this innovation can eventually be applied on an industrial scale,” he added.
When asked about his experience studying at UGM, Saviola said that he was confident in his choice from the beginning.
“Without a doubt, since my undergraduate years, I chose FMIPA UGM’s Department of Chemistry as my first love through the academic excellence-based entrance selection (SNMPTN) pathway,” he revealed.
The study program he chose is accredited internationally and has experts in the field, ensuring a high-quality education.
“The quality of knowledge imparted to students is excellent, and as a result, I decided to stay at UGM for my doctoral studies,” he emphasized.
According to him, FMIPA UGM offers various facilities and a conducive environment to support student learning.
For those looking to graduate quickly with outstanding achievements, Saviola advises both undergraduate and postgraduate students to manage their time as best as possible.
“We need to be diligent, persistent, and meticulous in conducting research, as these are key factors in graduating with the best achievements,” he concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya