Djoko Slamet Pudjorahardjo exemplifies the spirit of lifelong learning. At the age of 68, Djoko, the researcher at the Accelerator Technology Research Center (PRTA), Nuclear Energy Research Organization (ORTN), National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), completed his Master’s degree in Engineering Physics at Universitas Gadjah Mada through the Master by Research (MBR) program with outstanding academic achievement.
Djoko completed his studies in 1 year, 11 months, and 29 days with a cumulative GPA of 3.98. His thesis was titled “Analisis Desain Sumber Ion Tipe Multicusp untuk Siklotron 30 MeV” (Design Analysis of a Multicusp-Type Ion Source for a 30 MeV Cyclotron). He graduated during the postgraduate commencement ceremony held on Apr. 22 and 23, 2026, at Grha Sabha Pramana.
Djoko, who is part of the Linear Accelerator Technology Research Group, explained that his decision to pursue a master’s degree was driven by a desire to continue improving his competencies, as well as support from the institution where he works.
“I was motivated to pursue a master’s degree at UGM because I live and work in Yogyakarta, and there was an opportunity for human resource competency development from my institution through the Degree by Research program,” he said on Wednesday (May. 20).
In addition, Djoko considered the Master’s Program in Engineering Physics at UGM’s Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM) highly relevant to his work at BRIN, which focuses on accelerator technology.
“Since my work is related to engineering physics, I chose to continue my studies in the Master’s Program in Engineering Physics,” he explained.
Behind his success, Djoko admitted to facing several challenges during his studies. One of the greatest challenges was the rapid development of information technology, particularly the digital learning systems used within the university environment.
“One challenge during my studies at UGM was that students are expected to be familiar with the information technology systems used at the university, so at times I felt technologically behind compared to other students, who are generally much younger than I am,” he said.
Djoko added that several courses even required students to use programming languages and various applications to complete academic assignments. Nevertheless, he continued to adapt and keep up with technological developments to complete his studies successfully.
“They really respected senior students. Whenever I faced difficulties, they were always happy to help,” he remarked.
At an age approaching retirement, Djoko instead viewed education as a way to prove that the spirit of learning is not limited by age.
“At my age, when I am no longer young and nearing retirement, I was motivated to complete my studies within the designated timeframe and prove that I could still improve my competencies through further education,” he said.
Completing his master’s education also held deep meaning for Djoko. In addition to being a personal academic achievement, the graduation became a special gift ahead of his retirement.
“This graduation is a great gift before my retirement. It is also proof that I made the best possible use of the opportunity given by my institution to pursue higher education again,” he said.
Djoko also shared a message for younger generations and students currently pursuing their education, urging them to always maintain their enthusiasm for learning and confidence in their own abilities.
“Study with enthusiasm, dedication, and confidence that we can complete our studies on time,” he advised.
According to him, age is never a barrier to pursuing knowledge as long as there is still a willingness and ability to learn.
“Learning has no age limit, as long as we are still capable of doing it,” he concluded.
Author: Jelita Agustine and Purwoko/Public Relations of FT UGM
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photo: Courtesy of Djoko Slamet