Lecturer of the UGM Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Mora Claramita, was inaugurated as Professor of Medical and Health Professions Education on Thursday (1/7). She delivered her speech about the manifestation of ‘Tut Wuri Handayani’in medical education in the context of cross-cultural diversity.
‘Tut Wuri Handayani’ itself is a famous Indonesian motto in education by Ki Hajar Dewantara, which means educators should stand behind their students to support and encourage them throughout their educational journey. Through her speech, she emphasized the importance of soft skills within medical education. Those skills were necessary because doctors and health professionals dealt with humans and their illnesses, pain, and disease prevention and treatment.
“Currently, medical education in Indonesia equips doctors with professionalism, communication skills, and self-awareness in addition to clinical skills,” said Professor Mora.
She explained that ‘Tut Wuri Handayani’ in medical education encouraged the practice of community-based education and the use of learning resources based on local culture and customs. Doctors and health professionals should demonstrate good communication skills and respect patients’ distinctive cultural backgrounds. They should greet, communicate, and discuss with patients. Through these, they could understand the patients’ feelings and ways of thinking when sick.
“Discussion is an approach to build a rapport and shows equality between health workers and patients. It can minimize the gap in social status and establish mutual respect and trust as exemplified by Ki Hajar Dewantara,” she said.
Author: Gusti Grehenson
Photo: Firsto