The Faculty of Psychology of Universitas Gadjah Mada (Psychology UGM) held an Open Senate Meeting for its 61st Anniversary commemoration on Thursday (Jan. 9) at the faculty auditorium.
Dean of Psychology UGM, Dr. Rahmat Hidayat, reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to continuously strengthening its position as a center for the development of psychology that is excellent, relevant, and impactful, serving as a science hub that bridges research, education, and evidence-based practice, firmly grounded in Pancasila values and national culture.
According to him, the 61st Anniversary not only marks the passage of time but also serves as a strategic moment for reflection, reaffirming the direction and role of the Faculty of Psychology amid rapid technological developments.
“Amid complex external dynamics such as changes in higher education and psychology profession regulations, increasing demands for public accountability, and rising public expectations for psychology’s contributions to mental health, well-being, education, and the world of work,” he said.
In the academic sphere, Psychology UGM has demonstrated a high level of public trust.
This is reflected in the intense competition for admission, underscoring the faculty’s position as one of the most sought-after institutions for psychology education in Indonesia. This achievement is supported by various academic policy adjustments and innovations.
“In line with academic strengthening, Psychology UGM places student well-being as a priority through the provision of free mental health services and sustainable financial support,” Dr. Hidayat stated.
Throughout 2025, Psychology UGM distributed educational assistance through the Dana Dosen Peduli program to students in need.
In addition, a tuition fee (UKT) refund policy was implemented for students who graduate on time, along with UKT reductions for regular undergraduate students, as academic incentives and support for study completion.
The year 2025 also marked an important milestone for the Professional Psychology Education Program at Psychology UGM.
“For the first time, Psychology UGM graduated and inaugurated its first cohort of general psychologists,” he explained.
In addition, Psychology UGM organized a Bridging Course Program for prospective professional students, serving as a bridge between the undergraduate curriculum and the demands of professional education.
In the field of scientific publications, Psychology UGM maintained both productivity and the quality of its research outputs.
A total of 48 articles were published in Tier I and II international journals, accompanied by an increase in publications in Tier III and IV journals. The level of international collaboration reflects the faculty’s active engagement in global research networks.
Psychology UGM has also been actively involved in large-scale community service programs integrated with research outcomes.
These community service activities include community assistance, public psychoeducation, professional capacity building, and disaster response, with a focus on children, adolescents, families, older adults, and vulnerable groups.
In her welcoming remarks, the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Professor Ova Emilia, stated that psychology plays a vital role in building a resilient and prosperous nation.
Universities, she said, have a mandate to produce high-quality human resources through character development, mental well-being, and the promotion of science-based literacy and advocacy.
“Mental health is a key element of strong development, serving as social capital for building a resilient nation,” she remarked.
She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance and contributions of Psychology UGM during disasters in Sumatra. Through integrated psychosocial recovery programs for affected communities, the faculty has supported community recovery and assisted vulnerable groups.
On that occasion, Professor Emilia also addressed mental health issues related to the rising phenomenon of suicide and depression that threaten Indonesia’s younger generation. Therefore, she emphasized that programs initiated by Psychology UGM are highly valuable in contributing to the nation.
Author: Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Firsto Adi